Co-op Principle #8: Equity, Belonging, Inclusivity, and Accessibility
Every time you walk into the Potsdam Food Co-op you should instantly feel like you belong. While Equity, Belonging, Inclusivity, and Accessibility wasn’t part of the original seven cooperative principles, it has become one of the most important values and we work hard to create this environment every single day. At the heart of every thing we do and every decision we make is the goal to build a welcoming and community-centered space for everyone.
All food cooperatives follow 7 standard principles that were first created in 1995 by the International Cooperative Alliance to help co-ops stay true to their values: putting people, community, and fairness at the center of business. Later the 8th principle was created that is followed by most co-ops including us. Co-ops focus on serving their members and strengthening their communities instead of just focusing on profit like a traditional business. These values are more than just a list on the website, they are how we make all of our decisions and operate on a day to day and big picture level. The 8th principle on the list is Equity, Belonging, Inclusivity, and Accessibility.
To us, this principle means making sure everyone has access. Not just physically, but socially and economically too. The Potsdam Food Co-op accepts a variety of payment options like Bear Express, Roo Express, Knight Card, and SNAP, helping make fresh, healthy food more accessible to students and community members with different financial situations. We also offer one of the most diverse ranges of products in the area that reflect different lifestyles and dietary needs, including organic, vegan, vegetarian, and locally made items. Unlike some stores that just offer small sections for these products, our shelves are flooded with diverse items all around the store.
Double Up Food Bucks NY is a nutrition incentive program that allows you to double your food dollars and get FREE fresh fruits and veggies with your SNAP benefits! Shop for fresh produce at participating Double Up Food Bucks NY locations and get $1 for every $1 you spend in Double Up Food Bucks (up to $20 a day) to purchase more fresh fruits and vegetables the next time you shop. This makes fruits and vegetables more affordable helping SNAP shoppers stretch their food dollars even farther, it supports local farmers and helps boost our local economy. Don’t wait, Double Up today! Learn more about this by navigating to the food assistance programs section under our website's participate tab.
In daily operations, inclusivity shows up in both small and meaningful ways. From friendly staff interactions to creating a space where questions are welcomed, the co-op aims to make every customer feel comfortable walking through the door. Our product selection also reflects the diversity of our community. Whether it’s locally made yogurt from North Country Creamery and Painterland Sisters, or prepared foods like soups, sandwiches, and wraps that offer convenient and inclusive options for busy students and families, there are options for everyone.
This principle also connects closely to the co-op’s role in the community. Through outreach, student engagement, and events, the Potsdam Food Co-op works to involve more people and make sure different voices are represented. When more people feel like they belong, more people get involved which helps the co-op continue to grow in a way that reflects the entire community it serves.
The overall goal of Equity, Belonging, Inclusivity, and Accessibility is about making sure the Potsdam Food Co-op is a place for everyone. It was important to us here to adopt this 8th principle because when people feel welcomed and valued, they’re more likely to support the co-op, participate in it, and help it thrive. And when that happens, it’s not just the co-op that benefits, it’s the entire Potsdam community.
