The Lewiston-Auburn Community Market (LACM) continues to move forward as one of Maine’s most ambitious cooperative development projects. Envisioned as a multi-stakeholder, community-owned food hub, the market will bring together a grocery store, shared-use commercial kitchen, storage space, and community gathering areas designed to meet diverse food and economic needs of the Lewiston-Auburn community.

Founded as a cooperative in 2022, LACM has been shaped by a multicultural, multilingual group of community members, with strong representation from New American communities. The project responds directly to gaps in food access in downtown Lewiston while creating opportunities for local farmers, food producers, and entrepreneurs.

It’s much more than a grocery store. Designed as a community and economic engine LACM supports local producers, expands access to culturally relevant foods, and builds long-term community ownership.

LACM is currently seeking additional members as it continues to grow its base of community ownership. Their first Annual Meeting will take place on June 12 and is open to all members. This meeting will include the election of a new board. Members interested in running for a position must be in good standing (full $100 membership paid by May 12, 2026) 30 days ahead of the meeting, complete a nomination form (available in English and Portuguese), and have the time and capacity to commit to the project.

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This project has been years in the making. Read more about the early vision and community-led planning that helped shape what LACM is today: Cooperative Development in Action: Lewiston Community Food Center

LACM Website: https://lacommunitymarket.com/