A Free Fridge and Community Pantry is a physical standalone refrigerator and/or pantry that is accessible to the public and allows for the exchange of food between neighbors.
Generally speaking, it is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is self-serve (meaning no one needs to allow access to the fridge).
It is a “give a food, take a food” station where folks can drop off food and remove or take food from the fridge as they deem necessary.
The fridge and pantry should be maintained and cleaned periodically. And guidelines should be posted and maintained as it relates to food safety.
Three parties are involved in the setup, management, and utilizing of the free fridge: The Host, The Maintainers, The Community
The Host: The host provides physical space for the fridge and pantry to be installed and accessed. The host also provides electricity for the refrigerator.
The Maintainers: The maintainers source, install, maintain, repair, and clean the fridge and pantry.
The Community: The local community utilizes the fridge and pantry by placing food in or taking food from the fridge and pantry.