UC Merced continues to be a leader in helping lower food insecurity in the Central Valley community after announcing its partnership with the mobile application Fresh Food Connect.
The app will encourage local growers and gardeners to donate to the People’s Fridge in Merced, a free community fridge where people can take or leave fresh produce.
“We are excited to get started. Gardeners can download the app today to help feed our community,” Sustainable Food Programs Coordinator Erin Meyer said. “As food donations started dwindling in the county, I thought that our Sustainable Food Programs at UC Merced should utilize the app to help address our goals of reducing food insecurity and food waste.”
People interested in donating can download the Fresh Food Connect app and schedule to drop off the donated fruit and vegetables.
“This partnership will allow us to ameliorate two problems: food insecurity and food waste,” Meyer said. “As I look around Merced, I see fruit ripe for the picking. This beautiful, nutritious food can help feed our community, so we are partnering with Fresh Food Connect to allow community members to share that bounty with those in need.”
Fresh Food Connect is a nationwide app that connects growers and gardeners to food pantries and food banks.
The People’s Fridge, at 936 W. 18th St. in Merced, is open around the clock every day. There is no need for identification. Individuals just need to wear a mask and gloves when visiting the site.
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