Goodwill has been helping folks purchase good-looking apparel (not to mention supplying Halloween costumes for thousands of us) as a nonprofit for many, many years.

What if that concept were applied to other retail models? Like grocery?

Well in Chester, Del., that very thing is about to be tested out. This spring, Philabundance—a hunger relief organization located in Delaware Valley—will open the first nonprofit grocery store in the nation.  It will also be the first grocery store in the city of Chester in 11 years!

The store, Fare & Square, will offer a free annual membership with two levels of participation. One level will qualify to receive the benefit of having a percentage of each purchase applied to future purchases, while others who do not qualify for this program will receive low-priced specials. The store will also accept WIC (Women Infant and Children) and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits from customers.

Pretty inspiring, eh?

Philabundance hopes that it can take this model and spread it throughout the Delaware Valley. I’m hoping we’ll see this model spread throughout the country.

Of course, none of this would be possible without, first and foremost the brilliance of Philabundance, as well as its financial supporters. What a gift they are giving this community! Philabundance will be renovating a 21,000-sq.-ft. building to create a 13,000-sq.-ft. grocery store and is currently working with retail consultants to create an abundant presence for Chester residents.

We look forward to seeing how this nonprofit grocery model impacts not only the community of Chester, but the nation. Its success could very well create a brand new trend.

What do you think of the nonprofit grocery concept? Leave your comments below.

-Heather Strang