Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What can I buy at the co-op?

Currently we sell spices, rice, grains, beans, coffee, nuts, flour, dried fruit, dishwasher detergent, and an assortment of other dry goods and pantry staples. We also have a deal with Chicano Sol, a Pennsylvania-based organic farmer, to buy fresh produce at discounted prices.

How do I become a member?

1. Fill in the membership interest form. 
2. Attend a 30-minute onboarding to meet us, see our space, and learn about the benefits and responsibilities of membership.
3. Sign our membership agreement.
4. Begin paying monthly dues.
5. Now you can shop at the co-operative!
6. Pitch in with your labor to help the co-op run (see below for more information on what that entails).

Where are you? Do you have a storefront?

We currently operate out of a shared space in the Logan Circle neighborhood of Washington, DC with a couple of other community groups. If you know of any affordable spaces we could move in to, we'd love to hear from you.

When can I shop?

Our hours are Sunday from 6-7:30 pm and Wednesday from 5:30-6:30 pm. A member in good standing can shop solo at any time. Produce ordered from Chicano Sol can be picked up during Sunday hours.

When are member meetings?

Member meetings are Sundays from 6-7pm. It's our time to catch up, share a bite to eat, discuss that week's pressing business of the co-op, and make any decisions needed. Attendance is not mandatory.

What do you mean by labor?

We are a labor-based grocery co-operative. In less fancy words, we're a group of people combining our resources and efforts to provide food to members and the community. We're entirely run by our members and don't have any paid staff. As part of being in good standing, then, members are expected to contribute labor to help run the co-op. Labor can take many forms, such as updating the store inventory, taking notes during discussions, advertising the co-op on social media, making a dish to share at a meeting, or washing plates after a social event.

How much are dues?

Our co-op requires a financial contribution from our members to operate, currently between $5 - $20 per month. We have a sliding scale to acknowledge that not everyone is able to contribute the same amount. We ask members to reflect on how much they can afford with the below guide, and pay dues according to their ability.

Consider paying less dues ($5, 10) if you... Support children or family members / friends Have significant debt Are eligible for public assistance Belong to a historically marginalized group

Consider paying more for dues ($15, 20) if you... Own your home Have investments, retirement accounts, and/or significant savings Benefit from generational wealth Have a high earning power due to advanced degrees or other privileges

How much do things cost?

Members purchase our goods at cost, plus a 5% markup. Compared to local grocery stores, we are often slightly more expensive than Trader Joe's but cheaper than WholeFoods, Safeway, or CVS. Some of our products are much cheaper than in stores (e.g. spices, dish soap, mouthwash). 

We continue to research new and better sources of quality, sustainably sourced food at low prices. That said, the most effective way to lower costs is to expand our purchasing power by adding new members, so by joining you're helping lower costs for everyone!

How can I request new products?

Reach out to a co-op member. We're always open to new ideas of what to stock. If you have not yet filled out a membership interest form, you can add product ideas in the comments field there as well.