Food Access
One in six people in Waldo County face food insecurity—unsure where their next meal will come from, or whether there’s enough for their families to eat. At the Belfast Community Co-op, we believe that affordable food and healthy eating should be accessible to all.
CORE: Cooperative Ownership Reaching Everyone
The CORE (Cooperative Ownership Reaching Everyone) program helps make local, organic, and affordable food accessible to more people in the community. We offer rolling acceptance for new participants and annual re-enrollment verification for current and past participants.
Who qualifies for CORE?
- SNAP/EBT
- TANF
- HEAP
- SSI
- WIC
(or other verified forms of assistance—just ask!)
Benefits include:
- 10% discount on most products
- Discount stacks with Co+op Deals
- Extended $10/year equity payment option
How to apply:
For full details or to ask about eligibility, email ownership@belfast.coop.
For more details on the CORE program, contact ownership@belfast.coop.
Additional Food Assistance Programs
In addition to the CORE, the Belfast Community Co-op accepts several food assistance programs and participates in state- and region-wide efforts to expand access to affordable food and fresh produce.
SNAP/EBT
SNAP/EBT is the largest program in the domestic hunger safety net in the country, offering nutrition assistance to millions of eligible, low-income individuals and families and providing economic benefits to communities.
Learn more at the SNAP website.
Farm Fresh Rewards at the Co-op
- Ask for an application at the service desk
- Learn more about Farm Fresh Rewards.
- This program is linked with Maine Harvest Bucks, which can also be used at farmers’ markets, CSAs, and farm stands statewide.
- Download the Farm Fresh Rewards flyer from Belfast Community Co-op.
WIC Program
We’re proud to be the first food co-op in Maine to accept WIC benefits. This program provides nutritional support to thousands of families with children under five.
- WIC supports pregnant and postpartum women, infants, and young children
- Visit the Maine WIC Portal to check eligibility or apply
At the Belfast Community Co-op, we believe that food justice includes healthy, affordable food for everyone—regardless of income. Whether you’re a longtime shopper or just learning how to save money on food, we’re here to help.
