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Community refrigerator in Cape Coral helps feed people in need

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CAPE CORAL, Fla. — With so many wondering where their next meal will come from, one Cape Coral business has set up a community fridge to make sure struggling families don’t go hungry.

At first glance, you might not give it much thought, but if you look closely, you'll see the fridge outside Lee County Plumbing & Supply has a special purpose.

“We just don’t want anyone to be hungry at any time, especially now during the holidays,” said Dionne Lopez.

Lopez is the owner of Lee County Plumbing & Supply on 532 SE 47th Terrace in Cape Coral.

She says the idea of setting up a community fridge outside her business sparked from seeing the ongoing need caused by the pandemic.

“I want to help; Christmas is the time of giving and receiving,” said Lopez.

The concept behind the community fridge is easy: take what you need for free, leave what you can.

“They can come at any time, there are no specific hours, some people are embarrassed that somebody is watching them, so there’s no ties; you come, you take, you leave,” said Lopez.

Monday was the first day the community fridge was up and running.

Inside you will already find sandwiches, other packaged food, and water.

She says every year she and her family find ways to give back to the community, and this year nothing made more sense than helping feed families in need.

“I’m fortunate enough, so I just want everyone else to be too,” said Lopez.

Lopez says this fridge is a symbol of solidarity — a community coming together to help others.

“Maybe other people will think it’s a good idea and they’ll do it too,” said Lopez.

Lopez says they plan to keep the community fridge outside their business for as long as it is needed.

Anyone who wishes to donate can drop off goods directly in the fridge or contact Lopez at (239) 542-4618.