What a long, strange year it’s been! Holiday shopping has snuck up on me this year–maybe for you, too. It seems less fun, more of a muddle….we will see a few people briefly and from a distance, but our families’ traditional gatherings are not happening. Here are a few shopping ideas I love:

The gift of ownership: A lifetime share in the Menomonie Market Food Co-op is a gift that offers health, vitality, and belonging; it also increases the health and vitality of our communities in the Chippewa Valley. Stable access to local food and support for the producers of that food offers a sense of security that reaches beyond our grocery store. Gifting ownership in the co-op creates more stability for the co-op as well as access to owner-only sales and special events.

Menomonie Market Food Co-op Gift Cards & Declining Balances: I like having a declining balance at the co-op; it’s convenient and great for budgeting. You can buy a gift card or provide a declining balance, which enables convenient shopping either in-store or for curbside pickup.

Wonderful Treats & Unique Gifts: Check out our special cheeses, in stock now for the holidays, or peruse the kitchen section for linens, utensils, and sustainable gear. Chocolate, coffee, wine, and liquor from local and regional suppliers (and other co-operatives, too) are classic treats! You will also find handmade soaps, lotions, scarves, and socks—a gift basket is easy to fill at the co-op.

I hope you are finding happy ways to celebrate in this most unusual year. On behalf of the Menomonie Market Food Co-op Board of Directors, I wish you a joyous holiday season!