What's your name? Eliza Kinsey
Why is the Co-op important to you? The Co-op is important to me because I believe in healthy food access for all and the power of communities to promote their own health and equity. In addition to making fresh, local food available in our neighborhood, I think the co-op model provides opportunities for broad community engagement and explicit food justice initiatives not possible with traditional corporate grocery stores.
When did you join, and (if applicable), how have you been involved? My husband and I are proud South Philadelphia residents and have been member-owners of the Co-op for the past four years. I am excited to have recently joined the Food Justice and Equity Committee and am eager to get involved with the work of opening the store, including fundraising, designing store policies and broadening the reach of the Co-op in the community. I would be honored to serve on the board as the Co-op makes this exciting transition into opening its storefront.
How will your experience, skills, or unique perspectives strengthen the Co-op board? Professionally, I am a public health researcher with a focus on nutrition and health equity. I bring many years of experience working in the food system, including as a farmer, a food co-op produce department employee, and a farmers market manager. My skills in policy-making, program evaluation and food justice initiatives would be valuable assets for the Co-op and the Board.