Homegrown Co-op will now offer two online farmer's market ordering cycles per week, allowing members to pick up pre-ordered groceries two days per week, Wednesday and Saturday. Members can pre-order over 1,000 items from local producers and certified organic supply lines on their online marketplace at HomegrownCoop.org. The Farm Store in Downtown Orlando will also be open for walk-in retail business Wednesday through Saturday from 10 am to 7 pm and Sunday 11 am to 5 pm. Anyone can shop the Co-op Farm Store without becoming a member. The retail storefront will launch under the leadership of Richard Powell, who was recently hired as the store's assistant manager. Richard brings experience in management from Community Harvest Co-op in Melbourne, Florida.
Homegrown Co-op's new Downtown Orlando Farm Store will increase access and convenience to local food in a way that is currently not available despite consumer demand. The store will include not only fresh, seasonal produce from the network of family farms, but also a comprehensive section of local eggs and dairy, grass-fed beef, hormone-free poultry, prepared foods, bakery breads, bulk foods, sweets and healthy snacks. In addition to groceries, Homegrown Co-op’s evolving storefront offers an herbal apothecary featuring over 250 medicinal plants, sustainable home improvement technology, organic gardening supplies, healthy pet, bath and body sections. With continued community support and successful fundraising, future plans for the store will feature an organic juice bar and deli serving a wide selection of seasonal delights for breakfast, lunch and dinner on the go.
As a community-owned cooperative, Homegrown Co-op will apply Slow Money principles to develop a community-based model for raising additional capital funds needed. Co-op leaders are preparing to launch a 2011 Member Loan Campaign and welcome inquiries about becoming an investor, making material donations, or joining the leadership or volunteer teams.
More information: 407-895-5559, Info@HomegrownCoop.org, Volunteer@HomegrownCoop.org
