After 19 years of service and numerous renovations, Common Ground Free Store is excited to announce the construction of a new, centrally located facility. This space will bring all our operations under one roof in a safe, welcoming environment—one that reflects the dignity and value of every shopper we serve.
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Our Rich History
Common Ground was founded in 2006 as a collaborative effort to better support neighbors in need. The initial focus of Common Ground’s work was to create a store where basic care items were provided free of charge, a place where dignity and hope were freely given to all. For 19 years, Common Ground Free Store has provided stability for struggling families and individuals in the community. With the support of more than 1,800 dedicated volunteers, companies and congregations, Common Ground provides over 170,000 essential items - clothing and shoes, housewares, linens, toys, diapers, and toiletries along with 24,000 free prepared meals annually. There are no income requirements, no questions, and no scrutiny – only the support of people who care. Everyone is on common ground.
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Why Now?
Since opening in 2006, the demand for services at Common Ground has grown consistently, supporting nearly 5,500 families in Delaware County and beyond. Our current 3,000 square foot space is limiting our impact, and the store is bursting at the seams. The century-old building is in need of significant repair, while the small compartmentalized rooms result in an undignified and less safe experience for shoppers, volunteers, and staff alike. There is simply no room to adequately accommodate the need for storage, shopping, and community gathering space. As a result, we are now renting another building .25 miles away to handle our donation processing which has significantly increased our operational expenses, and the work load of our staff and volunteers.
Common Ground Free Store is in desperate need of a building that can comfortably house all our operations under one roof, create space to expand services, while simultaneously providing options for potential income streams. All of this will be possible in our new building.
Our Campaign
Common Ground has embarked upon a $4 million capital campaign to build a new space in the city of Delaware that better accommodates the needs of residents. The space will allow for a more inclusive, integrated, and healthy community across economic and social boundaries including:
- A centralized location for the free store, meal service and donation processing
- Uninhibited shopping space
- Increased community meals served
- Community spaces for educational programs and conversations
- Dignity focused programming for those in need
- Laundry by appointment
- Showers by appointment
Campaign Goals
Phase 1 (completed)
$300,000: Land acquisition and cash purchase, architectural and civil engineer, zoning and development approvals, and pre-construction expenses
Phase 2 (current)
$4,000,000: Land and site preparation, building construction, parking lot, sidewalks, ADA access, lighting, landscaping, utility connections
Common Ground has met the ever-increasing needs of the community over the past 19 years. The capacity for caring in the Delaware area community is great, and so are the material and food needs. Common Ground is out of space and needs to centralize services, increase storage and shopping areas, and continue to serve as a much-needed, judgement-free community anchor. We envision a place for shared service, compassion, and dignity, and a more inclusive, integrated, and healthy community across economic and social boundaries. With the support of generous volunteers and donors, all Delaware neighbors will continue to be met “on common ground” with care and dignity.
