Promising
Practices that show evidence of effectiveness in improving public health outcomes in a specific real-life setting, as indicated by achievement of aims consistent with the objectives of the activities, and are suitable for adaptation by other communities.

Community fridges are lifelines for the neighborhoods they serve

Vox, K. O.

Release Date:

Summary Report/Recommendations, White Paper/Brief

Outreach/ Education/ Communications
Economic Stability
Neighborhood and Built Environment
Social and Community Context
Tools Included
Outside U.S.
Facemask

Mitigation and Prevention

Community fridges were popularized in the US during the Covid-19 pandemic: community fridge database Freedge showed 12 US fridges in March 2020, and 160 by February 2021. These fridges are open 24/7 and anyone can access them, freely taking or leaving fresh food. Fridges are tailored to the needs of the neighborhood, and operate either more informally among community members, or with 501(c)(3) status and donation partnerships with local grocery stores or organizations. The fridges have been anecdotally successful in increasing food access while complying with Covid safety protocols.

Resource Details

Outcomes of Interest

Reduction of Health Disparities

Priority Population(s)

Setting(s) of Implementation

Community

Geographic Area of Implementation

Implementation Period

2020