A community fridge in southeast Colorado Springs is making it easier for families to access food anytime. Opened by the Southeast Food Coalition in 2024, this fridge is located in the Hillside neighborhood and is available 24/7 for anyone in need.
Jessie Henderson-Delgado, the president of the Southeast Food Coalition, highlights that many families in this area struggle due to its status as a food desert. For those without transportation, getting to the nearest grocery store can be a five-mile trek. Traditional food pantries often have limited hours, making them inaccessible for working families or those with children.
With this fridge, everyone can grab what they need without facing long lines. “We wanted to ensure food access for all, even if you’re juggling a job or taking care of kids,” Henderson-Delgado explains. The fridge’s popularity is growing thanks to community support; partners like Solid Rock Food Pantry and Care and Share help keep it stocked.
Petra Vargas, a local mother of six, appreciates the fridge’s benefits. She shares that even with two incomes, grocery costs add up, making it hard to provide for her family. “It means a lot to have this resource,” Vargas says.
In a broader context, studies show that food insecurity affects millions of Americans. According to the USDA, about 10.5% of U.S. households were food insecure in 2021. Community efforts like this fridge are vital in addressing these challenges, connecting neighbors and fostering support.
For the Southeast Food Coalition, this work is personal. Henderson-Delgado recalls her experiences as a young mother struggling to feed her children. That drive to help others motivates their ongoing efforts.
If you’re interested in supporting this initiative, consider volunteering or joining their efforts to keep the fridge stocked. Find more details on their Facebook page.
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