A volunteer-based organization in Dartmouth is now spending close to $6,000 per month on food for its community fridge, where people can take items for free. In addition to donations from community members and local businesses, the Dartmouth Community Fridge, located at Christ Church on Dundas Street, is restocked several times daily by volunteers. The initiative, which started a few years back, aims to assist individuals facing financial challenges.
Christene Nottegar, a dedicated volunteer for about three years, mentioned that donated food disappears quickly once placed in the fridge. An Instagram post by the group revealed that over $60,000 worth of food was purchased for the fridge from April 2024 to March 2025, primarily funded through fundraising efforts. Nottegar emphasized the growing demand for assistance, highlighting the ongoing struggle with affordability faced by many individuals.
The community fridge is managed by over 60 active volunteers who ensure its continuous operation and stocking. At another location in the city, a pair of community pantries mostly offering non-perishable items has experienced a surge in demand, according to David Aalders, co-founder of the Fairview Food Pantry Project. Statistics from Statistics Canada indicated that over 29% of Nova Scotians experienced food insecurity in 2023, with Food Banks Canada reporting over 43,000 visits to Nova Scotia food banks in March, a more than 10% increase from the previous year.
Aalders mentioned that a significant portion of food bank visitors rely on employment as their primary income source. He emphasized the importance of providing a diverse range of food items to cater to the community’s needs beyond basic staples like pasta and canned goods. Nottegar stressed the crucial role of community support and financial contributions in sustaining the operation of the Dartmouth Community Fridge.
In conclusion, the efforts of volunteers and generous donors are instrumental in addressing food insecurity issues and supporting those in need within the community.