COMMUNITY BUILDING

Kensington Community Food Co-Op

The idea for the Kensington Community Food Co-Op came from East Kensington resident Lena Helen and Solo agent Jeff Carpineta, both residents of the area who were deeply inspired by their time shopping at co-ops both in Philadelphia and Portland, Oregon. A field trip to Weaver’s Way inspired a dozen neighbors to form a steering group, research how to start a food co-op in Kensington and begin the grassroots work.

COMMUNITY BUILDING

Kensington Community Food Co-Op

Jeff stayed on the leadership team of the project, and years later, together with Deborah Solo, they were instrumental in securing a building. Mike and Sue Wade, owners of Knights Abstract title company, played a huge role and purchased the building when it became available. Deborah and Jeff helped select Studio 6mm architects and helped with fundraising to transform what was formerly O’Reilly’s Pub into the beautiful grocery and cafe you see today. The Co-Op finally had a place to call home, and a valuable community resource was born.