RVA Community Fridges has offered free food — 24 hours a day, seven days a week — since winter 2021.
Founder Taylor Scott opened the first fridge at 2025 Venable St. in Union Hill. The volunteer-run organization has since started eight fridges around the city — the Grand Stocking of the ninth is this Fri., May 20.
New to the community fridge life? Anyone can drop off food — including pre-packaged pantry items, produce + labeled prepared meals — at any time. Anyone can take food, for free, at any time. Check out these do’s and don’ts for more donation details.
It’s not just about the food. RVA Community Fridges has also done jean donation drives, hosted fundraiser concerts, and collaborated with other local groups such as Keep Virginia Cozy and Safe Space Market.
Map via RVA Community Fridges by@mismanaged.com_
The newest fridge is located at Ms. Girlee’s Kitchen (4809 Parker St.) in Fulton Hill and is already accepting donations. At the Grand Stocking on Friday, local artist Bordeaux will give the fridge a signature paint job — a feature of all the fridges.
Can’t make it to the stocking? There are plenty of ways to support RVA Community Fridges. Donate monetary funds to the fridge effort, volunteer your time, or grab a few items off the Amazon wishlist. Plus, you can always drop off goods at a fridge around town.
Follow the fridge journey on Instagram to see which fridges need a little love + where you can support the group at community events.
Bonus: They are reel experts when it comes to posting helpful + hilarious videos.