In our most recent newsletter we posted a board highlight that had an error in it! Sharon Kulish-Bayles noticed that the PayPal account balance should have been $7.37. Woops! good catch, Sharon!

 

We also wanted to make sure that everyone heard about the scholarships that are available, so we are announcing that bit of the newsletter again and adding it to the scholarships page:

VFC has some funds available for membership scholarships. Individuals wishing to become a member of VFC and feel they cannot afford to do so, are encouraged to apply. While funds are not unlimited, the membership committee will make every effort to help the applicant become a VFC member.

The initial scholarship amount is $30, half of the regular minimum initial payment of $60. Once the scholarship is approved, a $30 payment is due from the applicant, along with the regular VFC membership application.

To qualify for a scholarship, individuals must: have an income at or below 200% of the Federal poverty level (under 2009 guidelines, this means a total income of $44,100 for a family of four), live in Clark County, and agree to volunteer a minimum of 10 hours to VFC within the scholarship year. Renewal of scholarship for the second and third annual payments is not automatic; individuals must reapply each year.

Scholarship requests are reviewed quarterly. To receive a scholarship application, please email: membership@vancouverfood.coop.
~ Christine Bauman, membership committee

And finally, as you go about your daily business, don't forget that there are many opportunities throughout the day to talk with people you know or meet about the local economy, local businesses, and local food.  And what better way to end the conversation on a great and powerful note - join your local cooperative!