Note from the Editor: a reader informed us that she’d heard the Food Co-op’s new store was being replaced by a deli. “Say it ain’t so!” she implored us. Well, we’re happy to report that it’s “Fake News: South Philly Edition”…
By Carolyn Huckabay, Board of Directors, South Philly Food Co-op
The South Philly Food Co-op is as busy as ever this summer, from ushering in new board members, hosting community events, and building major momentum in their Capital Campaign.
In June, we told you about the Co-op’s “Kitchen Crawl: A Traveling Cocktail Party” — a progressive happy hour that took attendees on a tour of five South Philly homes and gardens. The tour ended with a sneak peek at their future location at 2031 S. Juniper St. The event was a great success, raising thousands of dollars toward the capital campaign, adding some new member-owners, and sharing a tour of the space.
Visitors receive a tour of the Food Co-op’s future space at 2031 S. Juniper St.
To build the store, the Co-op hired Philadelphia-based small business owner
Buckminster Green as general contractor. Phase 1 of construction began this spring, and included framing out the store. This will allow the landlord to complete their agreed-upon improvements, including electrical and HVAC installation and distribution. Be on the lookout for the storefront which will be installed later this summer, thanks to the City of Philadelphia’s
Storefront Improvement Program.
Kitchen Crawl participants on tour. Photo courtesy Food Co-op.
Buckminster Green will begin Phase 2 as soon as the Co-op reaches their Capital Campaign goals, and support from member-owners and the South Philly community at large has never been stronger. As of today, the Co-op has raised nearly $200,000 in member loans, and they’re 919 member-owners strong. With an overall fundraising goal of just over $1 million, there’s still work to do, so they need everyone’s help — dare we say cooperation — to keep up the momentum and bring in the funds needed to break ground!
Next Thursday, August 2, the Co-op will host a happy hour at Pistolas Del Sur, with drink specials and proceeds benefiting the Co-op. Come join the celeberartion and get all your questions answered.
If you’d like to get involved by becoming a member-owner, making a loan, or volunteering, please email general@southphillyfoodcoop.org. Or join the mailing list to receive the latest news from the Co-op!
