by The first worker and member-owned cooperative grocery shop in Boston, Dorchester Food Co-op, said on Friday that it urgently needs to increase sales or face closure in as little as two months.
In a statement sent to its member-owners on August 15, the store’s board of directors stated that it supports a solidarity economy. Everyone is invited to shop, and we will be able to extend the hours of operation with your help.
The cooperative launched in 2023 with the goal of generating employment and enabling locals to afford and obtain high-quality food. Its employees and members have voting rights at board meetings and possess stock in the company.
The board of directors stated in the letter that the cooperative’s cash reserves for operating expenses will run out in two months unless sales grow.
According to the letter, the co-op wants to raise $500,000 to boost sales in the upcoming year.
From placing a bulk or catering order to making the co-op a regular grocery visit, the letter outlined ways the community might help avert the closure.
The cooperative asked its member-owners to spread the word and commit to making a one-time or monthly commitment.
By increasing its selection, cutting costs, and providing free community activities and health workshops, the business, which is located at 195 Bowdoin St., claimed to have improved its operations to provide a better value.
In the letter, the directors included a link to aGoFundMe, which was established in 2021, for people to give to.
The board of directors wrote, “We’re determined to do everything we can in the coming months.”
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