P.E.I. Community Fridge celebrates 2nd anniversary

Organizers of a community fridge in Charlottetown marked its second anniversary Sunday afternoon.

Since it began, a number of fridges have been set up by other groups and communities across the Island. The fridges provide food for people in need.

Sandra Sunil, who helped start the project in Charlottetown, said it's been great to see a community come together to address food insecurity. 

"I think it's made a significant difference in terms of ensuring that folks have … immediate access to food," Sunil said.

She and fellow organizers hope the expansion of community fridge programs on P.E.I. can push government to do more to address food insecurity, Sunil said. 

"It's really opened people's eyes, and helped in terms of having a resource that is low barrier," she said. 

Colleen VanIderstine, who's volunteered with the community fridge since January, said its popularity shows the level of need in the community. 

"People are really having a hard time deciding between groceries, also a place to live … trying to feed, clothe children, themselves — it's difficult," said VanIderstine.    

She said donations of fresh fruit vegetables are appreciated by people who use the fridge. 

"That's something that most people can't afford at the grocery store these days," VanIderstine said.  

About 50 people attended the event that included drumming from Indigenous community members, a barbecue, face painting, henna art and a dunk tank featuring Housing Minister Rob Lantz.

'It's not our place to police anyone'

Back in February, concerns were raised about people taking large amounts of food from the community fridge in Summerside, or taking high-priced items and selling them. 

But Sunil said it's important to remember that everyone shows needs differently. People might be collecting food for multiple people, or cooking a large meal for a group, she said. 

"Really, it's not our place to judge," she said. "It's not our place to police anyone else." 

The anniversary event happend Sunday from 2-4 p.m. in the parking lot of the Parkdale Sherwood Lions Club, where the fridge is located. 

"It's really celebrating all the efforts folks have taken to support each other."