Hope Fridge opens in Menasha

MENASHA, WI – (WGBW & WISS) – A refrigerator stocked with fruits, vegetables, eggs, and even prepared meals and foods. A pantry contains non-perishables, cereals, and diapers. A community garden growing fresh produce. These items are part of a mutual aid group with a mission to feed the community. It is called Hope Fridge.

Hope Fridge had a grand opening of its latest location at 333 First Street in Menasha on Tuesday evening. People of Progression is hosting the Hope Fridge on its property. Hollie Poupart with the mutual aid group said the concept behind the Hope Fridge is to take what you need or give what you want to ensure that food and personal hygiene supplies are available for anyone with needs any time of the day, with no questions asked, and no limits.

Hope Fridge of the Fox Valley started in Oshkosh at a location that is temporarily closed. But Poupart said her goal is to expand back to the city of its roots. 

“We are still actively looking for a new host. We have a few options. It is something that we’re working on. It changes from day to day. Once this location is well established, that’s actually going to be one of my next focuses and my next projects,” Poupart said. “Because there is a need!”

The group asks for people to donate sealed, unopened, clearly labeled and unexpired foods. There is a guideline for donations on their website hopefridge.com/guidelines. 

Community volunteers donate their time to run the mutual aid group. The website is hopefridge.com.