The Harvard Square Business Association (HSBA), First Parish Church, Lesley University’s Threshold Program, Commonwealth Wine School, and First Cambridge Capital LLC have collaborated to address food insecurity in Harvard Square through the “Fridge in the Square” program.
Established in 2020 during the height of Covid by the HSBA, “Fridge in the Square” provides food and toiletries to the most vulnerable in our community. The program operates under the principle, ‘take what you need, leave what you can’ and is hosted by the First Parish Church. The fridge and pantry shed is located just to right of the main entrance.
In February of 2024, the HSBA partnered with students from Lesley University’s Threshold Program which educates and creates opportunities for neurodivergent students. Neurodivergent people represent 20% of our population (1 in 5 adults), yet are frequently overlooked in inclusivity efforts.
At that time, the HSBA and Lesley developed a formal program whereby Threshold students assume responsibility for menu planning, inventory management, budgeting, hands-on shopping, shelving and weekly food preparation of “to-go bags” to place in the Fridge.
HSBA executive director, Denise Jillson, stated, “Since its inception, HSBA members and friends have contributed over $22,000 to support the Fridge. We are grateful to all of them and this year we are especially grateful to Janet Jiang of First Cambridge Capital LLC for her generous contribution that will support the Threshold’s program this academic year.”
In recent months, the fridge and pantry, under the stewardship of the HSBA, has received a makeover. Commonwealth Wine School founder and HSBA President, Jessica Scully donated a new refrigerator and Alex Adamo, of Alex Makes Art, added her talents to keep the shed and pantry an inviting and colorful space.
Jillson said, “Members of the community are encouraged to participate in this important project. Single serving meals are accepted 24/7/365. We hope they will do so, knowing they are making a significant difference in the lives of the housed and unhoused who are experiencing hunger and food insecurity.”