GRAND RAPIDS, MN [OCTOBER 23, 2024] The Free Range Food Co-op (FRFC), a community-owned grocery store initiative in Grand Rapids, MN, is excited to announce its Season of Giving campaign. This critical phase of fundraising will run during November and December 2024, aiming to raise $250,000 to support pre-development costs for the store’s construction.
As Brandon Otway, FRFC’s board chair, explains, “This donation-only phase will fund the immediate need for our pre-development costs. We believe our goal of $250,000 by December 31 will substantially cover this next step toward the development of our community-owned grocery store! By making use of year-end giving, donation days, and match challenges, we open the opportunity for our community, and those beyond it, to invest in their values and make a donation to our food Co-op.”
The funds raised will support key steps in the Co-op’s journey, including hiring an architectural firm and store designer to move forward with schematic designs and site preparations. These steps are essential as FRFC works toward its ultimate goal of opening the doors of its grocery store. This locally owned store will connect the community with local growers, ensuring that grocery dollars stay within the Grand Rapids area. The Co-op embodies a democratic, community-centered model that strengthens the local food economy and gives owners direct control.
In addition to expanding food options, FRFC is proud to be the only grocery store in the region that is owned and controlled by local people. “The Co-op connects local growers to local people who eat food, and it keeps our grocery dollars circulating here in the Grand Rapids area,” notes a Co-op supporter.
FRFC Treasurer Tina White emphasizes, “All donations go through our fiscal sponsor, the Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation (GRACF), and can be made by anyone—owner or not! They can be made directly through you, your business, or through your financial advisor as part of your year-end giving. Donations are accepted via card, check, or cash.”
To donate online, visit freerangefood.coop/invest or the Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation website gracf.org/donate. Donations can also be made by mail or in person at the GRACF office, 350 NW 1 st Avenue, Suite E, Grand Rapids, Minnesota.
Free Range Food Co-op (FRFC) is a start-up, locally owned grocery store in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Our 1,168 owners are committed to community well-being through access to local, wholesome, organic foods and goods. FRFC is being built by the community, for the community. A volunteer board of directors and organizing teams are completing the business tasks in addition to community outreach to raise awareness of the co-op and build ownership. For more information or to become an owner, visit our website: www.freerangefood.coop or send us an email: freerangefoodcoop@gmail.com
