State of the Co-op

This is a “state of the Co-op” newsletter as we look at the finish of 2025 and start of 2026. What is the status of Lost River Co-op & Cafe?

The Co-op has run at a deficit all but two years of its 18 years in operation. It is only by the financial support of members, the community, and various grants that the Co-op continues to operate and fulfill its mission of “serving the needs of local growers, producers, and consumers by providing goods, services and healthy food choices at fair value. We promote community well-being, economic prosperity, and self reliance through cooperation.”

2025 was no different. Lost River Co-op & Cafe ended the year with a net loss of -$33,000, per our profit and loss statement. The true deficit is close to -$51,000, which includes recurring expenses like mortgage, SBA loans, etc. However, we cut the projected shortfall from an original -$75,000. A deficit such as this means that not all operating costs are covered in a timely manner. And it means that a basic level of grocery inventory is not sustainable. We would like to maintain a basic level of “pantry” items on the store's shelves, bulk area, refrigerated and frozen areas. But recently we have not been able to.

The Cafe is outperforming projections with salad bar, soups, hot bar selections, custom sandwiches, and baked goods. Our food access programs such as CSA boxes, Food as Medicine meal kits, free produce bag distribution and share of Farm Stand revenue performed beyond expectations for 2025. These programs are implemented in partnership with Orange County Food Trust, SICHC, Purdue Extension, Hoosier Uplands, Orange County Community Garden, Safe Haven, Grace Haven and others.

So, the Co-op is once again at a junction. We are launching a "Make up the Deficit" Fundraising Campaign that would raise inventory to a consistent “pantry” level that you can count on, plus put us current on key operational expenses. At the same time we need to examine our definition of Lost River Co-op as a food store and examine at what consistent levels we can maintain inventory to keep our promises to you and vendors.

Annual Meeting

We would like to hear from you as to what is important for the future. Our Annual Meeting is scheduled for Sunday, March 8 at 1pm. Come and plot the future for the store, the Cafe and food access programs for the community. A complementary ice cream bar will be served.

Can't join but have thoughts? Please reach out to email.lostrivercoop@gmail.com or to any board members to chat.

"Make up the deficit" Fundraising Campaign

• Donate any amount through our website

• Donate any amount at the register

• Donate through Orange County Food Trust for tax benefits