MFB Peoria helps stock the Fridge for those in need

Leave what you can and take what you need is the motto of the Riverside Community Fridge in downtown Peoria.

The Fridge is a ministry of Riverside Community Church. Take a look inside and you will find milk, eggs, packaged meat, carrots, lettuce, strawberries, and other nutritious items that need refrigeration. The Fridge is stocked through donations by individuals, businesses, and churches. Each Tuesday, it is stocked with items from Midwest Food Bank.

Volunteers stock, clean, organize, and donate to the Fridge. About 40 people access it each day. The Fridge is located and accessible from outside the church from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Sundays.

"We just wanted to thank Midwest Food Bank for your ministry and a huge shout out to the joyful and helpful volunteers that welcome us on your property and guide us through a quick process," says Carla Whitman, a volunteer at Riverside. "You are a huge blessing to the Peoria community through the Riverside Community Fridge." 

Riverside Community Fridge opened its doors in November of 2021, and the church wants it to be the hands of Jesus in downtown Peoria. They pray that it will bless people, build relationships, and open doors for deeper conversations. In particular, a recent family started attending Riverside church services and expressed their appreciation for the food they receive. It came at a needed time after a job loss.