WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – A cooperative group is addressing the food desert crisis in Forsyth County.

SHARE Cooperative is building a stand-alone grocery store, Harvest Market, to provide fresh fruits and vegetables to the community.

The USDA defines a food desert as an urban neighborhood or rural town without ready access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food.

SHARE Cooperative says Forsyth County has more than 20 established food deserts. The new food market may be the only store with healthy food options within miles for community members.

“There are a lot of people that are concerned now with the disparities that have existed have actually been uncovered, and they’re more accessible for people to see,” says co-founder, Rev. Willard Bass.

The Harvest Market is set to open in early 2021. It will be a cooperative owned and controlled by its members. Members can pay a one-time fee to enter the cooperative. The store will bring at least forty job opportunities to the area as well.

“A key part of this whole business venture, is not only to provide food for people who are insecure, who have needs, but we also want to be an economic model,” says Bass.

In October, Harvest Market leaders opened the first leg of the operation, the online store. People can buy their groceries online, pick up curbside, or schedule a delivery.

Volunteer Alecia Madison goes to dialysis three times a week. She says the food she’s received from the Harvest Market has helped keep her in good health.

“I’ve had to change my diet,” says Madison. “After being on dialysis for six years, I’m still alive and still moving and kicking.”

To get involved in the SHARE Cooperative, you can find more information here.