Effort to Open Solano County’s First Food Co-op Gains Momentum

SOLANO COUNTY, CA — The movement to bring Solano County’s first community-owned natural grocery store plans to hold a fundraising and ownership drive event this month to build upon the momentum of what is shaping up to be one of its best quarters yet, according to a news release.

Cultivate Community Food Cooperative, Inc., is partnering with the Empress Theatre Film Club to bring the award-winning film, "The Biggest Little Farm" Thursday, Aug. 8 to the Empress Theatre, 330 Virginia St. in Vallejo.

"This past quarter has been a tremendous success as more Solano County residents learn about our efforts and make the commitment to become owners," said Cultivate Community Food Co-Op Board President Paula Schnese.

At nearly 200 owners, CCFC is 100 owners away from conducting a market study which will inform the important decision of selecting what physical location will bring the most profitability and continued success of the co-op, Schnese said in the news release. The goal is to sell 1,200 owner shares before doors open. An ownership share is $300 and a payment plan is available, she said.

The movie screening event is in collaboration with the Empress Theatre Film Club and will feature a farmer's tabling event at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8 before the movie begins to showcase local farmers the co-op could partner with to bring high-quality, locally-sourced and affordable food to residents of Solano County.

"The Biggest Little Farm" chronicles the eight-year quest of John and Molly Chester as they trade city living for 200 acres of barren farmland and a dream to harvest in harmony with nature.

"The movie screening is just one event we are holding to engage the community and educate Benicia and Vallejo residents about the food co-op concept," Schnese said. "This fall we have two book signings scheduled and we also have a presence at the Vallejo Farmer’s Market, hold potlucks in the community garden in Benicia, and host monthly happy hours at local eateries."

Another upcoming CCFC event is its second annual owners meeting from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18 at the Dan Foley Cultural Center, 1499 N. Camino Alto, Vallejo. During the meeting, which is for owners only, CCFC will meet its newly elected board of directors, Schnese said.

The board will share the group's accomplishments thus far in 2019, as well as the goals and timeline for 2020. The group will also hear from two inspirational guest speakers with expertise in opening food co-ops.

"CCFC is encouraging individuals and businesses to become owners now, in time to participate in the annual meeting," Schnese said.

Further information is posted at Cultivatecommunityfood.coop/ownership.