The Merchantville food co-op held its first volunteer meeting this past Sunday at the Pennsauken Library, where several Merchantville and Pennsauken locals gathered to discuss the co-op’s vision and future volunteer needs. Led by a group of volunteers, the co-op strives to provide the community with a small grocery store stocked with fresh, locally sourced produce and goods, and be located within walking distance to many Merchantville and Pennsauken residents. Volunteers participated in an interactive game to define the co-op’s vision
and values, including community, health, sustainability, diversity, convenience, and accessibility. Merchantville resident Brigid Austin has been leading the charge for the co-op since the fall.
"Our first job is to talk about the co-op in the community and get people interested,” said Austin. "Eventually, we envision the co-op becoming a hub for meeting others in town and a catalyst for job creation." Following the meeting, the volunteers announced an official name for the co-op: “Sustenance Exchange Food Co-op.” The name was released earlier this week along with a new logo, Facebook and Instagrampage.
“The co-op is currently in its early stages of planning, with the aspiration to open its doors in four to five years,” said Austin. Volunteers also joined the following committee groups, spanning from finance, marketing, and legal to research, outreach, and sourcing. Those who are interested in volunteering should email Brigid Austin at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.