Community fridges were established in New York City during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, functioning as essential support for individuals in need. As of 2025, nearly all these fridges have disappeared, leaving a notable absence in their communities. Local memories persist, with residents still attempting to donate food to the now-empty locations. Complaints about fights over food and perceived theft contributed to the removal of many fridges, despite their initial value in helping the needy. Some local businesses, such as S'MAC, played a role in supporting these fridges by donating food when errors occurred in orders.
The community fridges, created during the pandemic, provided a lifeline for New Yorkers, but nearly all have vanished five years later, leaving empty spaces behind.
Complaints about fights and potential theft led to the removal of many community fridges, despite their initial intent to support the less fortunate during crises.
Ramiro Maca, a cashier at S'MAC, shared that people still bring food to donate to the now-missing fridge, showcasing the community's lingering commitment.
Despite witnessing violence around the fridges, Maca affirmed their goodness in theory, noting that S'MAC often contributed food when mistakes were made.
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