Survival of Co-op
Is Critical

I was encouraged to see the excellent front page article on the Randolph Coop regarding the difficulties it is facing, while discouraged by the precarious footing it finds itself in.

As a long-time member, shopper and farmer/ vendor(berries) to the coop I am deeply concerned by its struggle. I'm not at all sure that the community understands the importance of the role that a locally owned food store plays, especially regarding the increasing globalization of agriculture and growing domination of multi-national corporations.

A locally-owned coop such as the one in Randolph answers to its members and the overall community. Unlike a large corporate food store such as Shaws, Hannafords and others, the coop buys many of its products directly from local farmers and producers. While it is virtually impossible to find a Vermont grown product in Shaw's for example, and absolutely no local products, our coop carries quite a selection of them.

Glancing at the shelves one finds, depending on the season of course, everything from local milk, eggs, butter, yogurt and cheese, to fruit, vegetables, dried beans, tempeh, honey and maple syrup. And I know I've left some out!

By providing a market for local farmers and producers, the coop infuses money into local agriculture. When you shop at the coop, and especially when you purchase local products, your money continues to circulate within our community. This is in direct contrast to what happens when you shop at a corporate owned store; other than the money paid out in wages, most of the money immediately leaves town.

As a personal example, when you purchase my berries at the coop, the money I am paid for my crop goes to my town for real estate taxes to maintain the roads and school, to my neighbor for his carpentry work or another neighbor who is a car mechanic.

It is critical that the coop survive; not just survive but thrive. It needs the support of the community and it needs it now.

The notion expressed by some that it could fold and arise from the ashes in a new form is unrealistic and irresponsible. If it folded, it would do so owing large amounts of money to many local farmers and vendors, as well as United. Besides the damage this would cause those who have worked hard to grow and deliver quality food, it is inconceivable that any of us would wish to take that risk again. A new Randolph coop would find it difficult to purchase products, with the possible exception of COD; not a good way to run a business.

So the best way to express that you recognize how important it is to keep the Randolph Coop in existence is to shop there or even become a member. Buy your basic food needs, gifts, treats, wine and beer or whatever. If you don't find what you're looking for just ask them and they may be able to order it.

They are here to serve our community. Don't let all of our hard earned dollars leave town and our selection of, and access to food be dictated by a multi-national corporation.

Anita Kelman

West Brookfield