Community fridges see surge in use as SNAP benefits face cuts
November 6, 2025
PIX11 News
Greg Mocker
New York (PIX11) — A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to release funding for this month’s Food Assistance SNAP program by Friday.
People have been seeking alternative resources.
Community fridges continue to assist neighborhoods, and they’re seeing an increase in visits.
A website called Fridge Finder provides locations and instructions on how to participate.
Donations are always welcome.
Friends and neighbors meet at the places that have become local cupboards for people to share.
Keegan and Dylan installed the appliance on their front stoop this year on Pulaski Street in Bushwick.
“We can connect and look out for each other. I’ve noticed that leading up to SNAP benefits being cut, there was a much greater need. It’s emptying quickly,” Keegan said.
Many community fridges were installed during the COVID-19 pandemic, and dozens remain operational. Volunteers and neighbors maintain some. Non-profits operate others.
Along Bushwick Avenue near Gates Avenue, the sidewalk refrigerator is stocked and attended by volunteers and residents with Services for the UnderServed, a non-profit in the city which hosts five community fridges, food pantries, and residential centers.
“Community fridges are simple and amazing. Neighbors helping neighbors by taking and leaving food. We have already expanded our efforts across the board to make sure resources are filling the gap,” said Mike Hollis, VP of Community Food Security at Services for the UnderServed.
Restocking is facilitated through a network of volunteers and non-profit organizations.
The One Love Community Fridge has 9 locations and helps coordinate with other fridges and food sources.
A group of neighbors created North Brooklyn Mutual Aid during the pandemic. Nearly two thousand volunteers help support three community fridges.
