MercShare
Food For All
At The Merc Co+op, we believe that everyone deserves access to nutritious, high-quality foods and products. As a consumer-owned co-op, we support a sustainable local food economy, as well as a community based on justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome all community members to buy a share in the business and actively engage in the democratic business model.
The MercShare ownership subsidy and discount program was established to allow us to reduce the cost barriers to ownership and to provide owners with practical solutions that don’t sacrifice their values or their budget.
Co-op shoppers currently enrolled in Food Assistance Programs administered by the state of Kansas or Missouri are eligible for a MercShare ownership with an investment of just $10. The co-op subsidizes the additional $65 to complete the full $75 cost of a share. MercShare owners receive the same rights and benefits as all other owners.
And, co-op owners are eligible for MercShare+, an everyday 10% discount applied automatically on all fresh food purchases, like produce, meat and seafood, dairy, bread and bulk. See “Discounted Fresh Items” below for more information.
Participation
Non-Owners
To apply for ownership and the discount program, you will need the following:
Completed ownership application. Digital applications are available at the button below. Paper applications are available in store and for download here: English version | Spanish version
Proof of qualifying benefits [letter or form from assistance program(s), or recent receipt showing use]*
Register receipt documenting sale using a qualifying benefits card
Submit your application, documentation and receipt to a co-op cashier or e-mail your materials. Your application will be processed within 5-7 business days and your co-op account will automatically begin granting the 10% discount on all purchases.
Current Owners
To apply or renew the discount program only, you will need the following:
Completed MercShare+ Application/Renewal form. Digital applications are available at the button below. Paper applications are available in store and for download here: English version | Spanish version
Proof of qualifying benefits [letter, card or form from assistance program(s)]*
Register receipt documenting sale using a qualifying benefits card
Submit your application, documentation and receipt to a co-op cashier or e-mail your materials. Your application will be processed within 5-7 business days and your co-op account will automatically begin granting the 10% discount on all purchases.
Additional Information
Discounted fresh items
An everyday 10% discount applied automatically on all fresh food purchases, like produce, meat and seafood, dairy (cheese, yogurt, milk), eggs, refrigerated items (tortillas, hummus, dips, probiotic drinks), bread and bulk (foods, herbs, spices, tea, coffee). Excluded categories include: deli, bakery, cafe, grocery and freezer, vitamins, bath and body care, general merchandise and books.
redemption
Ownership shares are fully refundable at any time. The redemption value of the share is equal to the investment of the owner.
Renewals
MercShare+ recipients must reapply for the 10% discount every January. At renewal, applicants must provide current proof of qualifying benefits.
Funding
In 2007, a generous gift from the late Carol Nalbandian, an owner and board member, helped to establish the MercShare program. The MercShare program has helped to fund nearly 500 ownership shares for those experiencing financial hardship.
In addition to co-op funds, the employees of The Merc Co+op are the chief contributors, collectively donating the cost of one share every pay period. Several past recipients of MercShare have elected to voluntarily repay their ownership subsidy, and many owners include the MercShare program in their annual charitable giving. To donate to MercShare, speak with a co-op cashier.
Am I eligible for food assistance?
*EBT cash users may not qualify without additional proof of receiving Kansas Food Assistance Program benefits.