My mother and her cousin grew and preserved a lot of foods. For many years I bought absolutely everything, but when it started to look as if I would be denied access to my money (covid con, unjabbed) I started growing my own food. A big unexpected benefit has been that I am healthier!
It's not quite free, because there is a lot work involved. But the work is outside, in the summer and for that I am grateful. I don't often has excess, but when I do, it's fun to give give give. This year I gave peaches. To everyone.
I wish you a space you can grow food in, if only a tiny bit.