Help us raise funds to support for our new Full Plate Fund!

Will you help us feed our community? Chico Natural Foods Co-op (CNFC) is working to raise at least $5,000 to support low income shoppers during these uncertain times. CNFC is cooperative grocery store in downtown Chico, CA and about 10%+ of our customers receive low income assistance of some kind.

Many of our neighbors are already feeling the impact of the government shutdown and lack of program funding and we want to make sure no one goes hungry. That’s why we’ve launched the Full Plate Fund — an emergency discount program to support low income shoppers.

The USDA has said that a business cannot provide a discount to SNAP recipients, regardless of payment type, since it violates the SNAP Equal Treatment Rule. While the intent of that rule is to prevent price gouging, it also applies to discounts.

So instead, the Co-op will provide a 10% discount to customers who qualify for a variety economic need services, such as PG&E CARE Program, SSI, SSP, Medi-Cal, Medicaid, The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), and/or other programs. Our Econ owners have already provided proof of eligibility and will receive a 10% discount (5% of which is supported by this fund).

If someone is not a co-op econ member, we will give them a 10% off eligibility card when they provide proof of receiving for these services. Then they present the card when shopping to receive the discount for grocery, kitchen, and produce. The MORE program remains in place offering 75% off all California grown produce for CalFresh shoppers. We currently have a discount waiver in place allowing this discount specifically for CalFresh shoppers, even with a zero balance.

We will run this discount as long as we are able during the government shut down or until /unless federal program funding is released. If there is a balance remaining after the fund is no longer needed, the money will be used to further support the economic needs of our customers in a way to be determined.

Your community needs your help and the Co-op needs your help to sustain these discounts. Together, we can live our cooperative values by centering compassion, equity, and community—especially when it matters most. Right here in Chico!

To help sustain this program, there are three ways to donate to our fund:

• We’ve launched a GoFundMe campaign

• Go to our Website and choose an amount you would like to donate (mix and match for a custom amount)

• There is a donation code at each register. Let your cashier know you would like to donate and what amount and it will be added to your purchase.

CHICO NATURAL fOODS cOoPERATIVE

Do you need to be an owner to shop here? Nope! Everyone is welcome. But becoming an owner has its perks—special savings, discounts on case orders, and a vote in our board election. Plus, you’re investing in a community-driven store that supports local businesses and wholesome food.

Ownership starts at just $20 the first year and is fully refundable!