Community Fridges/Food Cabinets

Programs, often established informally, that provide and monitor the use of a refrigerator or storage cupboard in a public space in which anyone in the neighbourhood can place food donations, or from which anyone can "take what you need, leave what you can" in the spirit of mutual aid. Donations of other necessities such as personal hygiene items may also be encouraged. Properly storing food is imperative to keeping it safe making it vital that someone is responsible for not only keeping the fridge or cabinet clean, but making sure fridges maintain proper temperature to ensure that the food does not spoil. In some areas, fridge set-ups may be in violation of local health codes, so those willing and able to launch a fridge operation are encouraged to check with the local health department before opening.

 

Services

A community fridge and pantry with 24/7 access, in which anyone in the neighbourhood can take or leave food donations.

A community fridge with 24/7 access, in which anyone in the neighbourhood can take or leave food donations, in the spirit of mutual aid. 

A community pantry in which anyone in the neighbourhood can take or leave non-refrigerated food and essential good donations, in the spirit of mutual aid. See website for list of donation guidelines.

A community fridge in which anyone in the neighbourhood can take or leave food donations, in the spirit of mutual aid. See website for list of donation guidelines. 

Volunteer opportunities available.

A community fridge in which anyone in the neighbourhood can take or leave food donations, in the spirit of mutual aid. See website for list of donation guidelines. 

Volunteer opportunities available.

A community pantry in which anyone in the neighbourhood can take or leave non-refrigerated food and essential good donations, in the spirit of mutual aid. See website for list of donation guidelines.

A community pantry (no refrigeration) located on York Boulevard outside the Strathcona Market. 

A community fridge located on the corner of Locke Street and Stanley Avenue. Maintained by Blessings Community Church.

A community fridge located at the Ottawa Market on Ottawa Street North in east Hamilton. Maintained by Community Fridges HamOnt.

A non-profit organization that sets-up, monitors, and licenses outdoor fridges to provide free food to people in the community.

Protestant church that offers a weekly worship service on Sunday mornings. Videos of past sermons are available online. 

The Terryberry Branch of the Hamilton Public Library. 

Branch features include:

Subscribe to Community Fridges/Food Cabinets