Sliding Scale

We use a sliding scale so that people can hopefully access what we offer at price points they can afford. It’s an invitation to reflect on our privileges and what resources we have access to, talk about class, and practice trust and accountability so that more people can enjoy coi. It’s an experiment and an intention for figuring out how to run and sustain coi while exploring ways to make things financially accessible.  

 

The below is an adaptation of Worts and Cunning’s resource “​​The Sliding Scale: A Tool of Economic Justice” and outlines guidelines for how we price our sliding scale:

 

The highest cost option 

Reflects the true cost of the item (includes cost of goods and any margin for covering overhead and profit). It’s how much we’d charge if there wasn't a sliding scale. If you have access to financial security, own property or have personal savings, you would not traditionally qualify for sliding scale services. If you are able to pay for "wants" and spend little time worrying about securing necessities in your life, you have economic privilege and power in our community. This price is for you.

 

The middle cost options

Recognize that paying the full cost would prevent some folks from being able to access what we’re offering. These price points are for those who don’t find themselves reflected in either descriptions for the highest or lowest end of the scale. If you’re struggling to conquer debt or build savings or move away from paycheck to paycheck living but have access to steady income and are not spending most of your time thinking about meeting basic needs such as food, shelter, medical care, child care, etc., you belong here. If you, however, can ask others for financial support, such as family members, partners, or friends, please consider using those personal resources before you use the resources of the sliding scale and limit opportunities for others.

 

The bottom cost option

Recognizes that there are folks whose economic circumstances would prevent them from accessing something if there wasn't a sliding scale that offered a price point that reflected their economic realities. If you struggle to maintain access to needs such as health care, housing, food, child care, and are living paycheck to paycheck or are in significant debt, you probably belong here. We recognize that this lowest price point may still not be accessible to a lot of people, so feel free to contact us with any questions or thoughts!