A food co-op is a member owned grocery store. There are a number of different styles of food co-ops, but all of them share common values of group management and decision making, social responsibility, and equality. Most food co-ops strive to follow the Seven Cooperative Principles, which include:
• Voluntary & Open Membership
• Democratic Member Control
• Economic Participation
• Autonomy & Independence
• Education, Training & Information
• Cooperation among Cooperatives
• Concern for the Community
Eastsiders have been blessed with a food co op for many years. The co op on Euclid just east of University Circle has long been a successful shopping destination for lovers of local and natural foods. Unfortunately, it is quite a schlep for those of us “westies.” Part of building a greener more sustainable city is to strengthen our neighborhoods. Dense urban neighborhoods that provide more amenities within a small area are vital to reducing our city’s carbon footprint and to attracting new residents and new business to the region. Enter the West Side Food Co op.
This concept was borne of a discussion between residents of Cleveland’s Detroit Shoreway neighborhood. After several informal talks, the idea was tabled for several months. However, it has come back and with a vengeance. Now boasting a strong core of potential members and a “steering” committee that is dedicated to making this dream a reality, the West Side Food Co op is getting serious. Monthly meetings are well attended and things are progressing pretty close to schedule. By-laws and articles of incorporation are now in the works and things are getting ready to move to a new stage. So, how can you help?
Before the steps can be taken to obtain funding and to move to the next stage, it is imperative to prove that there is a need and a desire for a food cooperative on Cleveland’s west side. To achieve that end, they have produced a simple survey. Not only will you help to show how much excitement there is for this project, but it will also help steer the direction of the plan and help to determine product selection within the store. It may also steer the physical location of the store location. The survey itself takes only a few minutes to complete. I filled it out while sitting at a meeting on my cell phone. Although the survey is simple, it is vital to the progression of this project. Additionally, there will be folks out and about in west side neighborhoods, going door to door to get more survey results. Please take a couple of minutes to answer the questions and help form a brick and mortar location for a food co op. If you would like to help get some surveys filled out amongst your friends and neighbors, just drop me an email at robert@thegldc.com and I will connect you with the canvas coordinators.
Tags: Cleveland neighborhoods, coop, local food
