Celebrating Three Years of the Newton Community freedge

The freedge has become a key offering of the Newton Food Pantry and a cornerstone of support for individuals living with food insecurity in Newton and the surrounding area. On average, approximately 15 shoppers per hour visit the freedge — evidence of the consistent need for supplemental food assistance. 

The freedge is made possible through funding from the Newton Food Pantry, as well as in-kind donations from the local community, area restaurants and a robust team of volunteers. And of course, the Newton Food Pantry is particularly grateful to freedge host Mark Levine, owner of Central Drapery & Dry Cleaning.

Open 24/7, the freedge provides area residents great flexibility, enabling them to pick up supplemental groceries and personal care items on their own schedule. Shoppers report appreciating that use of the freedge is both simple and anonymous. 

It takes a village to meet the ever-growing need for food assistance. Volunteers from 12 community organizations, led by 20 team captains, do the hard work of keeping the freedge stocked, cleaned and ready for shoppers. More than 46 local business partners, ranging from restaurants to bakeries to non-profits, provide in-kind and/or financial donations. 

In addition, the Newton Food Pantry provides produce, bread and pantry products twice a day, and funds the restocking of purchased staples like milk, eggs and yogurt. The Newton Food Pantry also covers the cost of expenses like electricity, trash removal and snow removal. Please consider making a donation today to help support the Newton Community freedge!

The Newton Food Pantry is seeking to expand the freedge volunteer network to support ongoing operations. Two additional teams, including captains who can recruit and coordinate volunteers, are needed to serve the freedge on alternate Wednesdays or Fridays. In addition, individual volunteers are welcome and needed. Email newtoncommunityfreedge@gmail.com to be a part of the freedge volunteer community.

Join the freedge Facebook group to find out what’s happening and see what’s inside. Enjoy our celebratory three-year recap video.