OXFORD — Several Oxford Hills area artisans have founded the Maine Foothills Artisan Co-op, a member-owned organization that supports local artisans and craftspeople by providing opportunities to display and sell quality handmade items made in Maine  and created by artisans.

The co-op members have been working together to write the mission statement, by-laws, business plan and seek fundraising opportunities.

The goal of the co-op is to open the Maine Foothills Artisan Co-op store where artisans will display and sell their handmade items year round.

While membership will include a schedule for working in the store, consignment sales will be welcome. Funding for the co-op store will be gained through membership fees, space rental, percentage of consignment sales and fundraisers.

The group recently began a Go-Fund-Me campaign and hopes to secure funds to lease a local retail space by June in time for the summer season. The public can visit the site at gofundme.com/oubczc. MFAC is also working with an attorney to receive 501(c)(3) status.

The plan is to engage the community in the artistic process with special events and educational opportunities while contributing to the local economy.

The Co-op seeks to expand its membership.

An informational meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, at the Paris Public Library.

All area artisans and craftspeople who are interested in learning more about MFAC are welcome.

For more information, contact Jackie at 890-7188 or email [email protected].