How did your passion for eradicating hunger, food insecurity, malnutrition (and the stigma associated with all three) begin?
Food is the foundation of our health. Food is information. Food is medicine. Food is power. Food has the power to bridge humans and cultures. It is something we all as humans need to survive. Food access exists at the intersection of all broader social issues, including social, economic and racial inequalities. Healthy Food Is A Right, should not be considered A Privilege.
Tell us about your non-profit organization, One Love Community Fridge!
Our mission is connect, empower and engage the community through education and providing access to fresh food with no stigma - always leading with respect, dignity and health, Started in March of 2020, we have expanded to support 35+ fridges, with an incredible volunteer community and with support and attention spanning across US. Last year we redirected over 2.5 million lbs of fresh, high quality food.
We focused on eradicate food insecurity, and malnutrition and the stigma associated with it through community building. It is an intragenerational, multicultural and inclusive approach that centers access to fresh, locally-grown foods, nutrition education and sustainability.
One Love is interwoven with four Ecosystems: Food to Fridge (rescues food donations daily, delivering them to community fridges and shelters to combat food waste. ) Farm to Fridge (partners with local farms to supply fresh produce, offering educational programs on accessing and preparing it. ) School to Fridge )educates youth on nutrition and works to destigmatize hunger. ) Chef to Fridge (collaborates with chefs and restaurants to provide prepared meals for the community fridges.)
What’s your favorite part about your New York community?
I love New York! The energy - There is empathy and community. My favorite part is that it’s Inspiring, creative, always growing and evolving. We are always constantly challenged but always seem to find a way. One Love Community Fridge and everyone that is involved are really a testament to that.
What is the best way for others to help with One Love Community Fridge in Bed Stuy?
There are many ways to get involved. Get involved in ways that work for you. Here a few ways - You can volunteer your time; for example, help bring food donations to a fridge, help care for and clean a fridge, do out reach. You can share your expertise in different areas. Another impactful way to get involved is to donate food or funds.
Are there any plans on how you will grow One Love throughout NYC?
We are inviting everyone to get involved and join us. Please reach out if you are interested in hosting a fridge, volunteer or partner in other ways. We will continue to expand throughout NY one fridge at a time.
Follow along:
@onelovecommunityfridge
www.onelovecommunityfridge.org