South Philly Food Co-op Gives Back $20K to Community

When the South Philadelphia Food Co-op, a community-owned grocery store, officially opened in December 2020, its goal was to provide fresh, healthy food options for members of the Philadelphia community.

The idea for the co-op was conceived in 2010 by local community members seeking better access to healthy food and a stronger voice in local food policies.

Today, the Co-op has reached beyond its original goal. “We're not just a store. We are a community of folks that are working together to help make our food system more just,” said Lori Burge-Scott, general manager of South Philly Food Co-op, to Philadelphia.TODAY.

The co-op's mission centers on community well-being and sustainable local food systems. It aims to offer fresh, healthy food options while fostering social justice and community involvement.

Additionally, the team organizes educational workshops and presentations, giving back to the community through donation programs. It offers fundraising at its registers for dozens of local community groups.

According to Burge-Scott, the location has donated more than $20,000 since opening the store.

This month, the co-op launched an equity drive to encourage more community members to become investors and members.

Learn more about the South Philadelphia Food Co-op on its website.