STATUS: ACTIVE
SOCIAL: @csucampaigns
WEBSITE: NA
UNIVERSITY: Concordia University
ADDRESS: 7th floor, Art Nook, Hall Building,1455 de Maisonneuve West, Montreal
CONTACT: campaigns@csu.qc.ca
ABOUT THE PROGRAM:
The Community Cravings Fridge is a student-supported mutual aid initiative at Concordia University that provides free, accessible food to anyone who needs it—no questions asked.
Rooted in principles of food justice, dignity, and community care, the fridge operates on a simple model: take what you need, leave what you can. It serves as both an emergency food resource and a daily support system for students facing food insecurity, while also offering a low-barrier way for community members to contribute through donations.
As part of Concordia’s broader ecosystem of student-led food initiatives, the Community Cravings Fridge reflects a shift toward mutual aid and decentralized food access, creating a visible and immediate alternative to institutional food systems.
NEWS ARTICLES:
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VIDEOS:
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SERVICES:
- Community Fridge and pantry, open to all
TIMELINE:
- Early 2020s – Emergence of community fridge models across Montreal
- 2022 – Community Cravings Fridge established at Concordia
- 2023–present – Ongoing use by students and community members; integrated into campus food support ecosystem. Periodic restocks and activations by student groups (especially during exams and high-need periods)
GET INVOLVED:
- Donate Food
Contribute items like fresh produce, packaged goods and
prepared meals & Follow basic food safety guidelines when donating - Join student groups or initiatives that organize fridge restocks
Participate in donation drives &
food recovery efforts - Spread the Word!
KEY CHALLENGES:
- Inconsistent supply (dependent on donations and restocks)
- Maintenance and monitoring (cleanliness, food safety)
- Risk of overuse or rapid depletion during high-demand periods
- Lack of stable funding or staffing structure
- Visibility challenges (students may not know it exists)
KEY SUCCESSES:
- Provides immediate, stigma-free food access on campus
- Builds a culture of mutual aid and solidarity among students
- Creates a hyper-accessible entry point for food support
- Strengthens connections between campus food groups
- Flexible and responsive during high-need times (midterms, finals)
