Suwon Shared Refrigerators Spread Warmth of Sharing Across 42 Locations in the City

Throughout Suwon, there are refrigerators that anyone can fill with food, and those in need can take from—shared appliances used by all. These are 'Suwon Shared Refrigerators,' created by Suwon City in collaboration with civil society.

It is a 'Love·Sharing·Community Project' that builds a 'food network' and creates an environment where local residents can support those in need by themselves.

The Suwon Sustainable Development Council first installed one in Gwonseon-gu in 2018, and over eight years, word of mouth spread and the number grew steadily. Now, 42 shared refrigerators are in operation. By expanding hub locations centered on residential areas, the city has created a foundation for citizens to participate in food sharing from nearby locations.

Vegetables, food ingredients, fruits, side dishes, processed foods like canned goods, frozen foods, beverages, grains, bread, and rice cakes can be placed in the shared refrigerators. Only foods with at least 3 days of expiration date remaining can be shared.

Those in need of food can simply take food from the refrigerator without a separate application process.

The Ministry of Health and Welfare's 'Just Dream' project, launched in December last year, is similar to the shared refrigerators. 'Just Dream' is a 'basic food guarantee' corner that allows those facing sudden livelihood crises and other difficulties to access without complicated application procedures. It currently operates at approximately 300 business locations nationwide.

In Suwon, it has been operating at Haenuri Food Market (86 Maesanro, Paldal-gu) since May 8. The market offers basic foods and daily necessities such as grains, noodles, and bread.

Haenuri Food Market's 'Just Dream' operates Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 2 to 5 p.m. (excluding holidays), and any citizen in need of support due to sudden crises can use it. Approximately 20,000 won worth of food and daily necessities are provided. First-time visitors conduct a self-check and receive items, and on a second visit, after basic consultation, if help is deemed necessary, they are connected to professional welfare services.

An official from Suwon City said, "The Suwon shared refrigerator is a valuable project that practices warm sharing between neighbors and activates community culture," and added, "We will work to further spread a sustainable sharing culture."