Food Justice Ministry
Hungry? Have extra food to share?
We're here to help bridge the hunger gap for people in our community.
To donate to the food justice fund that helps supply the pantry, click the Donate button or go to the Give section of this website and select Give to Food Justice.
Some Do's and Don'ts of the PDX Free Fridge and Pantry at Portsmouth Union Church
DON'T: Label only one item or forget to label at all
This is a super important step for food safety. When things are properly labeled, the food tends to go quicker because people know what they are getting.
DON'T: Pack bulk items into one container.
When items are left in bulk containers, multiple people have to touch them, which is a sanitary risk. Have a large lasagna to donate? Please portion it out into smaller containers.
DON'T: Donate expired or already opened items.
Many people who access our pantry and refrigerator do not have cooking facilities.
DON'T: Leave cardboard boxes. Clean paper and plastic bags can be left for others to use.
This causes more trash for volunteers to handle. Please help us keep the fridge and pantry clean and sustainable!
DON'T: Put perishables on the pantry or leave food on the ground.
Leaving food on the ground attracts rodents, and leaving perishable food on the pantry ends up in the garbage, because it's not safe. Help us reduce food waste!
DON'T: Donate children's or adult office workwear clothing. Please do not donate clothing that is dirty, torn or has holes.
We have a very limited capacity to store clothes. Clothes that provide warmth and comfort while living on the street are most needed.
DO: Label each individual item with the date, what's inside, & any allergens
DO: Package items individually and unpack any items you're donating.
DO: Donate ready to eat foods such as chili, ravioli, soups, fruit, etc.
DO: Clean up after yourself when unpacking.
DO: Leave shelf stable items in the pantries and perishable items in the fridge.
DO: Donate adult size sweatpants, t-shirts, hoodies, warm jackets, rain jackets, socks, warm hats and gloves in good condition. Synthetics are ideal as they dry out more quickly.
PDX Free fridge
We are part of the PDX Free Fridge network, a community based and informed mutual aid effort to increase access to free food and vital supplies by creating a network of independent fridges and pantries in Portland, OR.
See the PDX Free Fridge website for maps, FAQ, and more.
