Grocery, housing & utilities cooperatives

Grocery, housing, and utilities cooperatives typically follow a non-share capital cooperative model in which fee-paying members obtain the right to share the communal resources of a grocery, house, or utility cooperative. Cooperatives operate under a variety of different models and are formed by individuals working together for social, economic, or cultural benefits. 

• Increased social capital

• Improved social skills

• Increased community involvement

• Improved local economy

• Increased access to affordable housing

• Increased access to healthy food

There is insufficient evidence to determine whether grocery, housing, or utilities cooperatives improve social capital, social skills, or community involvement. Available evidence suggests that limited equity housing cooperative residents may participate more in neighborhood organizations, have more extensive social networks, and higher social capital than non-participating peers¹. By utilizing local resources and creating locally-based businesses, cooperatives may help develop and stabilize local economies^{2, 3, 4}. Cooperatives may also improve access to affordable housing, healthy foods, and electricity, particularly in rural areas². Theories suggest that grocery cooperatives can be financially successful in rural or low income areas where traditional grocery store models are often unsuccessful^{5, 6}. However, additional evidence is needed to confirm effects.

The National Cooperative Business Association⁷, National Association of Housing Cooperatives⁸, and National Rural Electric Cooperative Association⁹ are active in most states.