New Harlem Community Fridge Opens To Feed The Needy

HARLEM, NY — People in Harlem who need something to eat can find free, fresh, nutritious food in a new community fridge that opened this week.

The fridge is on West 134th Street between Lenox Avenue and Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Boulevard. It is run by Harlem Grown, the nonprofit that has converted dozens of vacant lots into urban farms, helping nourish food-insecure children.

Stocked with produce, sealed store-bought items and even recipes, the fridge is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

People are urged to take whatever they need — or give what they can.

Community fridges began popping up around the city last year as a way for New Yorkers to help their neighbors stay well-fed despite widespread job loss and illness during the coronavirus pandemic.

Other nearby fridges include the Harlem Community Fridge at 116th Street and Manhattan Avenue; Community Fridge 120MMM at 86 West 120th St.; and the Peoples Peoples Fridge at 908 St. Nicholas Ave.

To support the fridge, donate to Harlem Grown or stop by in person to drop off food items — only sealed, store-bought items are accepted. Anyone with questions can email info@harlemgrown.org.

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