Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, solidarity initiatives from citizens, local governments, and community organizations have been commonplace. One of the most important has been the implementation of community fridges ("friendly" fridges) in the streets of New York, Philadelphia and many other cities in the United States.

These fridges were created considering not only the families who have been left without income during the health crisis, but also thinking about the people who have not yet solidified their legal situation in the country, and therefore, need the solidarity of the people and state aid now more than ever.

"Our undocumented neighbors have not been able to qualify for any benefits, so hundreds of families depend on our community fridge to save maybe a little, a few cents and thus save for the rent," said New York State Senator Jessica Ramos after learning of the destruction of one community fridges outside her office in East Elmhurst. "It's really devastating to learn that someone would do this especially in the New Year when we should be doing our best."

After the sad news, Ramos decided to ask for help and collaborated through her social media with her community to rebuild it. The response was immediate. 

The solidarity of the community managed to raise more than $35,000 dollars that will be used to continue filling this fridges and giving food to the neediest families in the district. The result of the donation campaign fills the community with hope and shows us that solidarity is our most powerful tool in these difficult times.