Bethlehem Grocery Co-Op Gaining Support

Efforts to create a grocery cooperative in Bethlehem are gaining momentum with the all-volunteer group now working on a business plan and feasibility study.

The group met Monday and has organized into four committees:

• Planning
• Membership
• Finance
• Communications

"We're making progress," organizer Cathy Frankenburg told Patch. "Overall, people are feeling really positive."

The project began last fall and went viral on Facebook with close to 700 people now tracking progress via social media. Volunteers range from college students to professionals and even include people who don't live in Bethlehem.

"It's about creating a business that embraces the community and supports the community," said Frankenberg.

Volunteers are working together to create a "diverse, positive, member-owned and operated grocery store that will provide a full range of healthy, organic food."

Organizers have set April 2014 as their target for opening the co-op. Once the business plan and feasibility study are done, the group will incorporate.

Also, the group has sample logo designs and will vote on a logo at its March meeting.

The main thing needed is an attorney to help pro bono with the project, said Frankenberg.

The co-op meets monthly at the Unitarian Universalist Church and welcomes new members.

"Whatever your talent, we can use your help," said Frankenberg.