There’s a quote about 3 kinds of people, “There are those who make things happen, those that watch things happen and those that wonder what happened”. What kind of person are you? I can tell you now about a few women and volunteers that have decided to take matters into their own hands and make things happen for their community.
The Pandemic of 2020 has left many unemployed and financially burdened. Not only has this left people with a concern of how they will pay their bills and rent, but where will their next meal come from? I saw many stories of families being evicted from their homes, with no compassion or consideration of what the world was experiencing. But humanity always finds a way to still give me hope. There is an African Proverb that says, “It takes a Village to raise a child” meaning that every interaction that a child experiences within its home and outside, promotes its growth. Well not only does it take a village to raise a child, but it takes a village to survive!
And usually, in that Village, there’s a black woman behind the scenes, making things happen. Let me Introduce Ms. Kendra Richardson, the activist behind the first community fridge in Fort Worth, Texas. She says:
“I’m just a black woman with a fridge with a passion & drive to feed my people. There will NOT be another hungry (Black) Fort Worth family, NOT on my watch! There’s no need for McDonald’s & chick Fil A when you have fresh free produce just waiting on ya! I made that happen and I am damn proud of myself & I pray my ancestors are too!”
The community fridge is placed in public areas and are easily accessible to volunteers and community members that want to donate food and other supplies. “Take what you need and leave what you can” is the slogan written, so everyone can feel welcomed.
The Peoples Fridge is another community fridge, located in Dallas, that was organized by Jasmine Coleman. Her drive and inspiration for the fridge, like many others, is that no one should have to wonder where their next meal is coming from and everyone should have access to fresh, healthy food.
It is said that the U.S. is late to the concept of these community fridges, but since the beginning of 2020, this idea has spread from New York to other cities around the U.S and a simple google search for “community fridges near me” can show you other locations. At some point I think everyone should not only donate items to these fridges but spread awareness about these fridges and their location, because it Takes A Village!
Funky Town Fridge Locations:
Southside fridge – 3144 Bryan Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76110
Poly fridge – 2308 Vaughn Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76105
Como fridge – 5705 Wellesley Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76107
The Peoples Fridge Locations:
4466 S Marsalis Ave, Dallas, TX 75216
324 E Belt Line Rd, DeSoto, TX 75115
1451 John West Rd, Dallas, TX 75228
