West Chester Cooperative is taking steps to finally open an in-person grocery store, writes staff for The Daily Local News.

The cooperative currently collects funds from over 70 member-owners as well as community donations. Both sources of income support the construction of a new storefront, where shoppers will be able to buy fresh, local groceries from community farms.

The storefront is planned for 204 West Market Street in downtown West Chester. The central location will make sustainable goods from small farms more accessible to the community.

West Chester Cooperative currently lists a funding goal of $1.8 million to construct and equip the storefront.

Member-donor equity supplies 16 percent of current funds. By becoming a member-donor, members can earn investments on their contributions. Member-donors can also vote in the co-op decision-making process and receive special promotions.

Board President for West Chester Cooperative Judy Carrino shared more about the significance of the co-op to the greater community, especially how member-donors and resident donations make up a crucial piece of this community-run organization.

Carrino described the next phase of the project as a call to action, stating, “If you believe in supporting local food, small farms, strengthening our local economy, and having a store that reflects our community’s values, now’s the time to step up.”

Read more about West Chester Food Cooperative and the organization’s plans for an upcoming storefront in The Daily Local News.

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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on VISTA.Today in August 2025.