In the Bag: Grocery Alternatives for Rural Communities

Description

Through conversations with local elected officials, The 7 Rivers Alliance became aware that many communities have lost their grocery stores and no longer have direct access to healthy food options.  Low-income citizens cannot benefit from foods available if there is no store within a reasonable driving distance, or if the only store has very limited inventory.  The 7 Rivers Region is home to many communities with very limited food access and the survival and success of these stores is necessary to ensure food security for rural communities.
The 7 Rivers Alliance is partnering with Juneau County, LYNXX Lemonweir Valley Telecom and the USDA to offer a one day planning event on May 11^th for business and elected leaders seeking grocery store options for their community. “We have assembled all the key organizations in one event so that leaders can explore all their options and connect with the right people to develop a viable community grocery model for their community,” said Dr. Lisa Herr, Executive Director of The 7 Rivers Alliance.
 
Rural grocery stores play a unique and critical role in their communities.  Fundamentally, they provide access to food especially for seniors, those with limited mobility, and low-income residents. But they also play an important social role and spur economic development in the community. According to the University of Wisconsin Extension services, for every one job created by a grocery store, another job is created within the community.
Cost:            $40 and includes lunch
Register:      www7riversalliance.org or by phone at 608-787-8777