Jubilee Fund investors helped create a Winnipeg employer with a legacy of social return.
Neechi Foods Co-op operated Neechi Foods Community Store for 23 years prior to opening the Neechi Commons in March of 2013. Neechi Commons hosted a variety of speciality products, in–house prepared foods, Aboriginal Arts store, Bakery and a Grocery store.
A loan guarantee made possible by Jubilee Fund investors allowed Neechi Commons to put a down payment on the property that the store was built on.
In 2018, Neechi Commons closed its doors due to a large debt and failing sales. While it was a five year struggle, Neechi Commons was successful in achieving its social goals, employing over 45 individuals of First Nations background who received training and learned valuable skills. Neechi Commons also improved access to healthy food in the Point Douglas Community and drew attention to the problem of an inner-city food desert.
A 2016 Social Return on Investments study showed that for every dollar invested into supporting the social objectives of the co-op, $4.70 was seen in social returns and reduced spending in government services that support people living on a low income.
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