Illinois towns use co-ops to remedy food deserts
Rise Community Market is a new grocery co-op coming to Cairo, Illinois, as a community reaction to the area's food desert. Reginald Hardwick/Illinois Newsroom
Many grocery stores have closed their doors, especially in rural communities, and that can create a void that’s hard to fill. Some communities downstate have taken matters into their own hands by organizing co-ops, grocery stores owned by community members, and in many cases working closely with agricultural producers in their area.
The 21st was joined by two people leading efforts to start co-ops in their communities.
GUESTS:
Steven Tarver
President, Men of Power, Women of Strength | Board member, Rise Community Market
Laura Enger
Community member, Farmer City | Leader of efforts to open a co-op grocery store there
Prepared for web by Owen Henderson
Help shape our coverage on The 21st by joining our texting group and answering weekly questions. To join, text “TALK” to 217-803-0730 or sign up with your phone number below: