Surplus food initiative launches city fridge

A community surplus food initiative has launched a city fridge, with the aim to reduce food waste by redistribution.

HeartyEarth community celebrated the start of Oxford City Fridge at the Botley Road side of the Westgate Hotel on 7 March.

Oxford West and Abingdon MP Layla Moran and the Lord Mayor of Oxford Mike Rowley cut the ceremonial ribbon and about 50kg of food was given away.

From 17 March between 10:00 GMT and 22:00 GMT, residents will be able to take away free food, collected daily from the Oxford Food Hub and Sofea charity.

HeartyEarth founder Sâmân Jamshidifardsaid it was "important to note we focus on surplus of surplus".

"What is left after all the other charities, foodbanks and others have taken everything they need or can save, by taking food from our space, you are helping to [reduce food waste].

"The generous owners of the Westgate Hotel, Andy, Steve and Phil Jones, are very happy to provide the space for the community efforts."

Two HeartyEarth art installation can also be found in the space.

Along with his volunteers, he also provides free curry meals across the city.

He added that he saw Oxford City Fridge "as an organic extension of Oxford City Larder, Jericho Pantry, Hinksey Park Larder and the SurplusCurry project".

Mr Jamshidifardsaid thanked Oxford independent businesses that back the initiative such as The Flower Shop, Kennington Flooring, Fishtail Lounge & Bar, Dosa Park restaurant and Happy Cakes.

Other guests to the launch included councillors Susanna Pressel and Lois Muddiman.

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