TCAP Kicks off Food Co-op Program

Published: January 12^th 2010

By Bob Coupland of The Tribune Chronicle

WARREN - The Trumbull Community Action Program is offering a food co-op program for people facing difficulties during the current economic times.

Wanda Nelson, TCAP program director, said the co-op is being previewed this month and will begin in February.

One room in the building, 1230 Palmyra Road, has been transformed into a small "store" with deli selections, a dairy case, frozen food and other items. It will be open between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday to Friday beginning in February. Participants will pay a $15 annual membership.

In addition to the co-op, TCAP also offers a monthly food buying program with prepared bags of food, a senior service program, and mentoring and utility bill assistance.

Nicholas Jennings, human resource director, said he has seen a lot of need for food among low to moderate income families. "The need was identified through our food buying club," Jennings said.

"With the economy the way it has been we wanted to help people out by letting them get food here at a lower cost," he said.

The program was made possible by funding grant through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Resident Annabell Fuller of Warren said the program is helping her and others since prices are lower than other places.

"We compared prices and it is less expensive," said Fuller, who liked the deli and produce selections.

TCAP also offers a senior service program that provides light cleaning, companionship and errand-running to the store for seniors. Program eligibility is based on income.

Jennings said about 40 seniors have been assisted.

There is also a mentoring program that trains people to make repairs at seniors' homes. Seniors pay for the cost of the materials but not the work, Jennings said.

James Davenport, outreach worker, said the utility program has helped 200 Trumbull County residents with heating and gas bills in the winter months. Eligible seniors have to be at least 60 and live in Trumbull County.

Jennings said Community Service Block Grants and a home weatherization assistance program has made the programs available.

For more information call 330-393-2507, Ext. 286.