Care for Community — 3% Thursday for Just Food
At The Merc Co+op, we believe everyone deserves fresh, nutritious food. And we know that SNAP and other government assistance programs are inaccessible or reduced this month. For those who rely on these programs to access groceries, even a short disruption can mean difficult choices about food, bills, and other essentials.
Food insecurity is a shared reality across our communities—shoppers and some of the people who make the co-op run every day are also navigating the same challenges. We can show care through our actions toward each other by being understanding, patient, and connected. Here's a few steps we are taking:
Thursday, November 13 we’re donating 3% of Lawrence sales to Just Food to help fill the gap left by paused SNAP benefits. We also accept shelf stable donations which are picked up every weekday by Just Food staff and volunteers. Give if you are able.
Crosslines Community Outreach is our Change for our Community partner for 2025 in KCK, and we'll be matching those community-donated funds to support their pantry and programs.
Remember Ownership at the co-op through our MercShare+ program is a one time investment of $10 — we have expanded qualifying benefits programs this year so more of our community can participate. MercShare owners get 10% off your grocery purchases every day. Learn more here.
We are reaching out to our representatives to urge them to make these funds available. Nearly 190,000 Kansans rely on SNAP.
We also ask everyone to be gentle with staff and volunteers at food pantries and community organizations distributing food for free or low cost. Many of these organizations are already working at capacity and will likely face even higher demand if benefits are delayed or reduced. A little patience and kindness can go a long way.
Together, we can uphold our cooperative values by centering compassion, equity, and community when and where it’s needed most.
Just Food is the food bank of Douglas County, supplying over 30 partner agencies with fresh produce, dairy products, meat, bread and pantry staples. We are a team dedicated to our guiding principles and listening to our shoppers and community to serve the larger needs of our neighbors facing hunger. Just Food is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.