Metamorphosis for Mariposa

Mariposa is West Philly’s member-owned food co-op and purveyor of natural foods, in operation since 1971. It has long outgrown its current retail space, a small storefront at 4726 Baltimore Avenue. Finally, they have a new place, one five times larger and only one block away. They have been steadily raising funds to make the space their own. As co-op members, neighborhood residents and local business owners, we are happy to do our part because it means more good, wholesome food for all, as well as a big improvement to the block and the traffic on Baltimore Avenue.

So, we’re having a fundraiser and raffle on November 20, just in time for Thanksgiving, when we celebrate the harvest and give thanks for our food. We’re collecting tons of great raffle prizes, like handmade gifts, jewelry, gift certificates for restaurant meals and local services, all donated by local businesses, shops, restaurants and artists. A portion of our sales on that day will go to the co-op, so it’s a perfect way to start your holiday shopping. The raffle will be at Dock Street throughout the afternoon and evening. There will be live music, great handcrafted beer and food, and a portion of their sales will also be donated. Raffle tickets are only $1 each. Complete event details, including an updated list of prizes, can be found at metamorphosisformariposa.blogspot.com.

Here is one of the first to arrive, a hand-decoupaged butterfly plate by one of our consignors, Suzanne DeVicaris of In Situ Decorative Arts. How appropos for the theme, and a perfect addition to any Thanksgiving table.

If you’d like to add a contribution to the list of prizes, please let us know. And please, buy as many raffle tickets as you can. The beauty of this event is that any contribution directly helps everyone in the neighborhood, so we will all reap the benefits. I cannot wait to shop in our new co-op and know that I helped make it possible, and the same goes for everyone who participates. Maybe by next Thanksgiving we will all be able to thank ourselves for giving West Philly a better place for local, organic and sustainably produced food.

Thank you!