Cooperative Fund of New England
The Cooperative Fund of New England (CFNE) is using HFFI financing to increase healthy food access in New England and eastern New York State through the Healthy Food/Cooperative Communities initiative, which combines financing, development services, technical assistance, and data collection and measurement to increase low-income consumers’ utilization and membership in co-ops. This work led five food co-ops in the past year to start implementing new programs to better serve low-income communities. For example, HFFI financing supported the start-up capital expenses of the Fertile Underground Grocery Food Cooperative in Providence, Rhode Island. You can find more information here.
Source of money: HFFI CDFI-Financial Assistance Program
Note: The Cooperative Fund of New England is a CDFI headquartered in Massachusetts that is working throughout New England and eastern New York State.
Woonsocket Neighborhood Development Corporation
The Woonsocket Neighborhood Development Corporation used HFFI financing to develop real estate for two new businesses and seven micro-business start-ups in Woonsocket. These businesses will bring healthy food choices to the neighborhood, including a farmers market, a historic diner, and micro-enterprises with a focus on healthy food. Through existing CDC programming, these enterprises will provide low-income workers with access to training, affordable housing, and low-cost childcare. You can find more information here.
Source of money: HFFI CED Program