SHARE Colorado is a food co-op operating in Denver that makes groceries affordable for everyone.
Unlike most food programs that are need-based or require some sort of qualification, SHARE is open to everyone.
According to their web site, you can average a 50% savings - that is, if you purchase their “Classic Package” for $25.00 they say the same products in local markets would cost over $50! They have several packages available and you can even order specific items ala carte.
Not only will you save cash but you’ll save TIME - because the packages are put together for you - all you have to do is pick up your order at a community center or church in your neighborhood. Ordering is easy. You can call SHARE Colorado or use their web site. You can view the packages and even download menus that are created around that month’s food items.
They also state on their web site that are not there only to serve low-income families, but that everyone qualifies - “If you Eat, You Qualify”.
The program helps everyone save money on groceries so they can use their money elsewhere.
How the program works:
Those who wish to participate locate their local distribution center and order their grocery packages ahead of time. Then the items become available for pick up on distribution days at various locations in Denver neighborhoods.
There are similar programs in communities nationwide. The co-op in Colorado was formerly known as WORLD SHARE and is now SHARE Colorado and serves affiliate communities in an 8-State Region. I was told that there are similar programs / food co-ops in communities all over the US.
The program is largely run by volunteers, they only employ 6 staff which includes grocery buyers. They also rely on tips from volunteers on good information about grocery pricing. They purchase large quantities of food at a discount or at wholesale and pass the savings on to us by using volunteers to make it work each month.
You can get started right now by viewing the May packages and placing your order on their web site.
The APRIL Classic Package costs $25.00 and includes the following:
Organic Meatballs 12oz - Tex-Mex Skillet Dinner 44oz.(feeds family of 4) - Bratwurst 16 oz
Breakfast Sausage links 12 oz - Ground Beef xtra-Lean 1 lb - Hamburger Dinner
Potatoes(6 ea) - Onions(3ea) -Lettuce Radishes Tomatoes (2ea)nMangos (2ea)
Lemons (2ea) Oranges(5ea) Grapefruit(2ea)
It’s too late now to order the April package, but you can preview and order your grocery packages for May. The web site is http://www.sharecolorado.com
I’ve always been interested in Food Co-Ops as a great way to involve myself in the community and save money. SHARE Colorado helps me do both. I look forward to saving money, eating well, and participating in something in my community.
SHARE Colorado serves the following Regions - The links allow you to search for an ordering and distribution center by zip code:
South Dakota :: Wyoming :: New Mexico :: Nebraska :: Texas ::Kansas ::Oklahoma :: Missouri :: Arizona :: Utah ::
Other Sources of Information:
What is a Coop? :: National Cooperative Business Association
Coop Directory
Do you participate in a food co-op or grocery buyer’s club? Do you know of similar programs in your area? What are some more ways you know of to save money on groceries?
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