Food insecurity is a serious issue facing many Hamiltonians. One new initiative we have seen pop up in the last couple years are community fridges across the city. These provide low-barrier, publicly accessible free food to residents and are an easy way for people to provide mutual aid to those who need it in their neighbourhoods. 

Where to Find Them

Community Fridges HamOnt 

Gilkson (West Mountain): 

44 Greendale Dr.

Today’s Family Early Learning and Child Care

Beasley (Downtown): 

249 John St. N

(Merit Brewing warehouse)

Crown Point East (East Hamilton)

204 Ottawa St. N

Ottawa Market

Other Independent Fridges/Pantries

Locke Street Fridge at 115 Stanley Ave, Blessings Church

Strathcona Pantry (pantry only) at 460 York Blvd, Strathcona Market

McMaster Community Fridge at McMaster University, behind Mills Library, near parking lot B

What to Donate

You can find Community Fridges HamOnt’s donation guidelines here and there is a quick reference in the image below. The independent fridges/pantries will have there own guidelines, so click on the links above to find out more. 

Other Ways to Get Involved

Community Fridges is looking for volunteers, you can apply here. Short on time but not on cash? They also accept gift cards.

If you’re looking for other ways to get involved in the #hamont community, check out this page.