A Logan County community that has been without a grocery store for four years opens today.

The Market on the Hill grocery store in Mt. Pulaski opens today with a grand opening later this week. Andrew Meister (my-stir) is the Chairperson of the Market on the Hill coop and says a year of creative thinking and fundraising has made the grocery store a reality for a community of about 1,800.

Bringing in food from local producers is an instrumental piece to the Market on the Hill grocery store. According to Meister, over ten-percent of a family's income goes towards food-related expenses. 

Local family farms will be an integral part of the coop and many in central Illinois will recognize the names of some of the contributors to the food supply for the Market on the Hill.

Demand at the grocery stores has been so high, limits on certain purchases have been implemented. According to Meister, this was the time to open up.

Meister hopes the food coop may open up opportunities for other farmers in the area. He indicates farmers who may not view selling food for local sale is not part of their business plan but perhaps this will give them that opportunity.

The Market on the Hill is a community-owned grocery store owned by 125 residents of Logan County. Store hours are 9 am-7 pm Monday- Saturday and 10-4 pm on Sunday. The store is open to all, and shoppers need not be owners to take advantage of the store's many offerings. The store will feature a deli with high-quality meats and cheeses and will carry a number of staple goods, including pantry items and fresh produce, with special efforts to source products directly from surrounding farms.

The store will open its doors for business today and is located on the corner of S. Layafette St. on the town square. A grand opening celebration will follow on Friday. To better serve Logan County residents amidst the pandemic, all shoppers will receive 20% off fresh fruits and vegetables, guaranteed through September. The discount is made possible through a partnership with the Mt. Pulaski Economic Development Board and will make fresh fruits and vegetables more affordable for shoppers of all income levels at a time when it is needed most.

The grand opening will feature a ribbon-cutting with dignitaries and legislators and free light refreshments provided by Mike Richner Catering in partnership with John Wyss of Primo Grills. Local ingredients will be provided by Hilltop Community Gardens and Tyson's Farm. Outdoor seating will be available and state guidelines for social-distancing will be observed.

For more information about the Market on the Hill and opening week, activities visit www.facebook.com/marketonthehill