1. A Mission to Eradicate Hunger and Stigmatize Food Insecurity
Asmeret Berhe-Lumax is on a mission to combat hunger and reduce the stigma surrounding food insecurity and malnutrition through her organization, One Love Community Fridge. Her work is rooted in the belief that food is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of health. By providing free access to fresh, healthy food, she aims to empower communities and foster a sense of dignity and respect. Berhe-Lumax emphasizes that food is not just sustenance but also a tool for community building and a means to address broader health and social issues, making it a vital starting point for tackling systemic challenges.
2. The Inspiration Behind the Initiative
Berhe-Lumax’s journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she started stocking a single community fridge in Brooklyn with her family. Her inspiration stemmed from her upbringing in East Africa and Sweden, where food played a central role in community life. Witnessing the disparities in food access within New York City’s schools and neighborhoods highlighted the urgent need for action. She realized the profound impact of food insecurity on children’s ability to learn and thrive, motivating her to expand her initiative into the nonprofit organization it is today.
3. The Operational Framework of One Love Community Fridge
One Love Community Fridge operates through a tiered partnership model, involving individuals, local businesses, and larger corporations to redistribute surplus food. They maintain 40 fridges across New York City and have expanded to Seattle, with plans for further national reach. Each fridge is stocked daily with fresh produce, meals, and essentials, ensuring consistent availability. The organization’s approach is hyperlocal, focusing on community ownership and involvement, which fosters a sense of responsibility and accountability among participants.
4. Growth and Impact of the Initiative
The organization has significantly grown since its inception, redirecting over 2.5 million pounds of food to those in need, serving 800,000 individuals. This redistribution not only combats food insecurity but also reduces waste, aligning with sustainability goals. Berhe-Lumax is astonished by the quality and volume of food rescued, emphasizing the collaboration with partners to achieve this impact. The growth from a single fridge to multiple locations underscores the community’s embrace of the initiative and its potential for further expansion.
5. A Unique Approach to Food Access
Unlike traditional food pantries, One Love Community Fridge operates on a community-driven model, where fridges are accessible 24/7 and maintained by local volunteers. This approach fosters a sense of ownership and respect, crucial for dignity. Berhe-Lumax highlights that food insecurity affects diverse groups, including seniors, students, and families on tight budgets, challenging stereotypes about who needs assistance. The focus extends beyond food provision to include public health and community well-being, aiming to create an environment where people feel valued and seen.
6. Broader Implications and Future Vision
The mission of One Love Community Fridge extends beyond immediate food distribution, seeking to address systemic issues like public health and sustainability. By promoting respectful and dignified access to food, the initiative fosters a community that values health and well-being. As the organization continues to expand, Berhe-Lumax envisions a future where food insecurity is eradicated, and communities are empowered through education and access to nutritious food. Her work serves as a testament to the power of grassroots initiatives in driving meaningful change and creating a healthier, more equitable society.
