In Miami, Florida, a grassroots movement is tackling pandemic-driven food insecurity with a simple yet powerful idea: community refrigerators. The initiative, known as the Village (Free)dge, offers free 24/7 access to fresh produce, meals, and pantry staples through outdoor refrigerators placed in underserved neighborhoods.
Organizers say the project aims to address systemic inequities by blending mutual aid with sustainability. 'No questions asked, no forms to fill—just take what you need and give what you can,' explains a spokesperson for the volunteer-driven group. The model has already supported hundreds of families, relying on donations from local businesses and residents.
With food insecurity rates rising by 23% in Miami-Dade County since 2020, the Village (Free)dge offers a blueprint for hyper-local solutions. Over 20 refrigerators now dot the city, serving an estimated 1,000+ individuals weekly.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
