FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS THE FRIDGE?
The fridge is a free, mutual-aid service aiming to provide food to our neighbours in the Halifax/Kjipuktuk area.
WHAT IS MUTUAL AID?
Mutual aid is solidarity-based support derived from communities recognizing and addressing their own needs. This approach towards a common good differs from institutional charitable work that often poses barriers to access or contributes to the circumstances failing to meet community needs.
- Ecology Action Centre: Mutual aid and community care, more important than ever.
WHERE IS THE FRIDGE?
The Halifax Community Fridge is located outdoors at 1491 Carlton Street, beside Glitter Bean Café.
WHEN IS THE FRIDGE OPEN?
The fridge is open and publicly accessible 24/7, so you’re welcome to stop by anytime.
HOW DO I VISIT THE FRIDGE? DO I NEED TO CONTACT YOU BEFORE STOPPING BY?
No need to contact us ahead of time! Whether you’re stopping by to take what you need or leave a donation, you’re welcome to visit anytime.
DO I NEED TO BRING ANY KIND OF IDENTIFICATION TO USE THE FRIDGE?
No! You don’t need to bring any identification. No ID, phone number, address, or appointment is required to use the fridge.
HOW MUCH CAN I TAKE FROM THE FRIDGE?
We follow the community fridge approach: take what you need, leave what you can.
Everyone’s needs look different, from person to person and family to family. When possible, we also encourage sharing fridge and pantry items with neighbours who may be waiting.
HOW DO I DONATE FOOD TO THE FRIDGE?
Because the fridge is open and accessible 24/7, donating food is as simple as stopping by in person whenever it’s convenient for you.
Before donating, please take a moment to review our Food Donation page to ensure you’re aware of our guidelines, recommendations, and any restrictions.
HOW DO I DONATE MONETARILY?
You can donate funds through our Donation page.
To avoid transaction fees, you’re also welcome to donate via e-transfer to: communityfridgehfx@gmail.com.
If you’d like to include a name or a “donated on behalf of” note, please add it in the message section of your e-transfer. (This option is not available for donations made through our website.)
CAN YOU PROVIDE TAX RECEIPTS?
Unfortunately, we’re not a registered non-profit, so we aren’t able to offer tax receipts for donations.
I CAN’T DONATE, BUT HOW ELSE CAN I HELP?
If you’re not able to donate, there are still plenty of ways to support the Halifax Community Fridge.
We often welcome volunteer help. Feel free to reach out to get involved. You can also make a big difference by spreading the word: tell your community, follow us on social media, and share our information with others.
HOW DO I CONTACT THE FRIDGE?
You can contact us by sending a message on social media (Instagram or Facebook). However, for the quickest and most reliable response, we recommend reaching out by email at hfxcommunityfridge@gmail.com or through our contact form.
I CONTACTED YOU, BUT HAVEN’T HEARD BACK YET
Thank you for reaching out to the Halifax Community Fridge! While we do our best to respond to all messages, we are entirely volunteer-run, so it may take a few days to get back to you, and occasionally a message may be missed.
We truly appreciate your patience and understanding.