Organizers say the initiative is about more than giving away food — it’s a chance to connect with the community.
HOUSTON — Medical students from Texas A&M University’s School of Engineering Medicine are tackling food insecurity in Houston with the Healthy Harvest Community Fridge, a monthly pop-up that offers free fresh food to local residents.
The program launched in March and is led by EnMed students Tristen Slamowitz, Alayne Morrel and Maggie Jordan. The fridge is stocked with fresh produce, eggs and other essentials through partnerships with local grocers, including Sprouts in the Heights, and funding from the Houston Global Health Collaborative.
The next event is set for 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14, at Bering Memorial United Church of Christ, 1440 Harold St. in Houston. Additional dates include Oct. 12, Nov. 9 and Dec. 14.
Organizers say the initiative is about more than giving away food — it’s a chance to connect with the community and show how future physicians are helping address health and nutrition needs outside the clinic.
“Our hope is to make fresh, healthy options accessible for everyone, while building relationships in the communities we serve,” the student organizers said in a joint statement.
Residents can pick up fruits, vegetables and other staples at no cost, and volunteers from Texas A&M EnMed will be on-site to help. Local grocer partners will also assist with restocking during the events.
For more information about the program or to get involved, contact Ellen Neiers with Texas A&M EnMed at ellen.neiers@gmail.com or 936-230-9190.