The Bulk department has been a staple of Seward Co-op’s identity since it was founded in 1972. While the co-op has expanded greatly over the decades to include more grocery and fresh items, the Bulk department is still a prime example of cooperative values in action: taking just what you need and doing so as sustainably as possible. Jeri Thurber (she/her), a Bulk and Grocery Replenishment Buyer at the Friendship store, appreciates knowing that she can help folks save money and reduce waste by supporting them in the Bulk department. “There is such a huge variety of items in our Bulk department! From soaps to syrup to grains and flours, I do most of my shopping outside of Produce here.”

Jeri began working at Seward Co-op in the Produce department and transferred to Bulk a little more than a year ago. “I initially applied at the co op because I appreciate the co-op model and working with the community—and we’ve been long-time co-op shoppers.” She moved to Minneapolis from Omaha, where she didn’t have access to a cooperatively owned grocery store. “It was a really nice change to move to a city that supported local and cooperative ideals,” Jeri says.

“I appreciate being able to support folks shopping in Bulk and sharing and receiving ideas about the items we carry.” For Jeri, one of the best parts of working in the Bulk department is reminding shoppers that they can bring their own reusable containers to shop bulk items. “I wish more people knew that they can bring their own containers to refill so they can purchase just the right amount that they may need and not have to think about wasting product or money. It did take me a bit to remember to bring my own bags or containers, but now I keep a bag stocked with refillable containers by my back door so it’s always ready when I need to purchase something.”

So what’s Jeri’s favorite item in the Bulk department? “Stinging nettle! It is such a support for me, personally, to drink it regularly, it supports so much of our body. I even have a tattoo of stinging nettle designed by a local Indigenous artist!”

“I really love being able to see friends and neighbors on a daily basis. It’s so nice to be a welcoming face at the co-op and being able to support my community with my job, as well as the volunteering that I do,” Jeri says. “I stay inspired by my community. Supporting community and sharing in the ways we can make it better keeps me going. I hope for a future that sees us all living more equitable and peaceful lives.”