The Lake Country Community Fridge just got a boost to help keep food on its shelves.
At its meeting on July 8, Lake Country council voted to provide a $2,000 grant to support the 24/7 initiative, which offers free food to anyone in need and accepts donations from anyone who wants to help.
ѻýThis is a great program,ѻý said Coun. Bib Patel. ѻýEveryone knows that.ѻý
Located on the Winfield United Church property (3751 Woodsdale Road), the fridge has been serving the community since October 2021. Itѻýs entirely volunteer-run and relies on community donations, grants and monetary contributions to keep it running.
ѻýIt helps all those in need in our community,ѻý said Jackie Goode, Community Fridge founder. ѻýIѻýve talked to seniors who said this is helping them get by. Other times itѻýs people who are close to paydayѻý others rely on it on an ongoing basis.ѻý
The funds, which come out of the $7,000 council set aside this year for grant-in-aid programs, will go toward food and essentials, as well as upkeep.
The fridge and pantry are designed to be a barrier-free option for those facing food insecurity, whether on a short-term or regular basis.