LIME Program
Our Limited Income Membership Entry (LIME) program makes co-op membership and healthy food more accessible for individuals and families with limited incomes. Community members enrolled in qualifying financial assistance programs can purchase a Rivers Co-op membership for just $12 and receive a 10% discount on groceries every time they shop, making fresh, nutritious food more accessible every day. This program is currently available only at our St. Paul locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does LIME work?
Anyone enrolled in financial assistance programs may qualify for LIME membership and the LIME discount. If you are already a Rivers Co-op Markets member enrolled in financial assistance, you may apply for the LIME discount. The LIME discount is valid only for qualified individuals or immediate family household members shopping with qualified participants. The LIME discount is for personal use only.
Which financial assistance programs qualify someone for LIME?
Qualifying programs include SNAP/EBT, WIC, Social Security Disability, Supplemental Security Income, Section 8 housing, Refugee Cash Assistance, Medical Assistance, and General Assistance.
How can I benefit from this program?
If you participate in a qualifying financial assistance program, you may be eligible to use the LIME program. If you’re already a member, you can apply for the discount at the register. This program requires an annual renewal.
LIME gives you two ways to save:
1. 10% grocery discount*
Once you’re enrolled, you get 10% off groceries every time you shop. The discount is for you and your immediate household only.
2. $12 membership
If you’re not a member yet, you can join for $12. The rest of the membership cost is covered over time through patronage dividends until the full $90 is reached.
*Some exclusions apply.
How do patronage dividends work for a LIME membership?
Patronage dividends (also known as patronage refunds) are your share of the co-op’s profits distributed back to you; or, in the case of a LIME membership, back into your member account until $90 is reached. After the close of our fiscal year (June 30), our board reviews the co-op’s financials and if we’ve had a profitable fiscal year, they’ll decide what amount is appropriate to be retained and what amount is distributed to member-owners. For LIME members, you likely will not receive cash patronage dividends the first few years or more of your membership, depending on how often you shop and if the co-op is profitable.
Which member benefits can I access as a LIME member?
- Save at local, independent Saint Paul businesses through our Community Partner Program.
- Save on weekly Owner Deals — sales just for member-owners.
- Enjoy member discounts on classes and special orders.
- Vote for our board of directors and apply to run for a board seat. Use your voice to impact positive change!
LIME Renewal
Do I need to renew my eligibility in the LIME program each year?
Yes, your LIME membership must be renewed on an annual basis.
Why do I have to renew my LIME discount?
Circumstances change and we don’t want to assume that you’ll always be in need of financial assistance. We want to ensure we’re reaching those most in need.
When I renew my eligibility in the program, will my LIME membership payment plan change?
No. Once you sign up for a LIME membership, we’ll continue making payments on it from the “earned” cash portion of your patronage dividends until you reach the full $90 membership equity level. Renewing your eligibility does not change your payment plan.
Can’t you store my proof of eligibility so that I don’t have to renew?
We take confidentiality and privacy seriously and do not want to store any documents that contain your social security number or income amount on site.
I’ve lost my proof of income-based financial assistance. Can I still renew?
We require proof of enrollment in an income-based financial assistance program to be a part of the LIME program. This documentation is the only way we’re able to verify eligibility. If you’ve lost documentation, please contact the agency you receive benefits through to request a new proof-of-enrollment letter or card verifying your participation.
Have additional questions about the LIME renewal process?
Please send us a message and we will get back to you shortly!
