Why was the community fridge in downtown Charlottetown shut down?

The community fridge in downtown Charlottetown was shut down in 2024 due to zoning issues and complaints from residents regarding garbage and client usage.

What was the goal of the Charlottetown community fridge?

The goal of the Charlottetown community fridge was to provide an accessible resource for affordable, quality, and quick-to-grab food without asking questions or imposing barriers.

Is there still a need for community fridges in Charlottetown?

Yes, advocates emphasize that the need for food insecurity support and access to nutritious food remains significant in Charlottetown.

Home / Lifestyle / Charlottetown Community Fridge Shut Down After Four Years

Charlottetown Community Fridge Shut Down After Four Years

8 Feb

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Summary

Charlottetown's community fridge closed in 2024 due to zoning issues and resident complaints.
The original fridge aimed to provide accessible, quality food without questioning users.
Advocates and users emphasize the continued need for food insecurity support in the city.

Charlottetown's first community fridge, a vibrant hub providing accessible food for four and a half years, has ceased operations. The fridge, known for its colourful exterior and mission to offer quality meals without barriers, was shut down by city council in 2024. This decision followed zoning concerns and complaints from some residents regarding site upkeep and usage patterns.

The closure has left a void, with advocates emphasizing the persistent need for food support in Charlottetown's downtown core. While two other community fridges operate in different city areas, they utilize a supervised model, which differs from the original vision of a barrier-free resource. This distinction is crucial for those who believe in providing aid without questioning.

Experts suggest that data collection on who uses community resources is important for program evaluation. However, for many users and organizers, the original fridge's success lay in its anonymity and ease of access. The P.E.I. Food Exchange, which previously supplied cooked meals, has redirected its efforts to a local outreach centre, impacting its ability to reach a broad vulnerable population.