What Is a Food Cooperative? A Look at Big River Grocery
What is a Food Cooperative
A food cooperative grocery store is not like a regular grocery store; instead of being owned by one big company, a food co-op is owned by the people in the community. Owners of the co-op buy a share, which makes them part-owners of the store. That means they have a say in how the store is run, what food is sold, and how the store helps the community.
How Food Cooperatives Work
In a food cooperative, every owner gets one vote. It doesn’t matter how much money you put in—everyone’s voice is equal. Owners usually pay a one-time payment to join, which helps get the store started and keeps it going.
Food co-ops usually focus on bringing in fresh, healthy, and local food. Many sell fruits and vegetables from nearby farmers and try to keep prices fair. Because the store is owned by the community, the goal is to serve people—not just to make a profit.
Why Food Cooperatives Are Important
Some towns don’t have a grocery store nearby. These are called food deserts. In places like this, families may only have gas stations or fast-food restaurants to buy food, which makes it hard to eat healthy.
A food cooperative grocery store can change that by giving people in the community a place to buy the food they need. Co-ops also bring people together. They are more than just a store—they are a way for neighbors to help neighbors.
One example is Big River Grocery in downtown Helena, Arkansas. Local community members are working hard to start, launch, and grow the Big River Grocery store to provide healthy food options for customers in Helena-West Helena and beyond. Big River Grocery will:
Give space to small local businesses, like farmers, bakers, or coffee shops, to sell their goods.
Create jobs for local people.
Invest money back into the community instead of sending it away.
This store is not just about food—it’s about bringing new life and hope to Helena-West Helena and Phillips County.The First Presbyterian Church building is truly becoming a catalyst for change, underpinning Helena's narrative of grit and determination and a bold step toward a stronger, healthier, and more self-reliant future, built by the people, for the people.
Working Together Makes a Difference
Food co-ops like Big River Grocery show the power of people working together. When the community owns the store, everyone has a part in making it succeed. By joining, you’re not just shopping—you’re building a healthier, stronger future for your town.
Donate today to support the Big River Grocery project.