Local Organization Phoenix Web Revives Hunters Community Fridge

The structure that will become the new home for Phoenix Web’s Community Fridge, which will be located less than 300 feet from its original location in Hunter.

HUNTER — In the heart of the Village of Hunter, a vital resource for those in need is on the brink of resurrection thanks to community efforts and Phoenix Web. The Community Fridge of Hunter, which operated from 2022 until May 2024, provided free pantry items and refrigerated and frozen goods to low-income and at-risk members of the community. After a brief hiatus, the Fridge is set to make a comeback but needs the community's support.

The Fridge, initially run by Phoenix Web Inc., a 501c3 non-profit organization based in Hunter, operated out of an unused garage behind the Hunter firehouse. The garage, owned by the Catskill Mountain Foundation (CMF), was the perfect spot for this essential service. With the help of the Kaaterskill Methodist Churches, the Fridge was stocked with goods donated by local restaurants, cafes, and other eateries, and operated 24/7 without issue. For many, the Fridge was a lifeline, offering food to families struggling to make ends meet, individuals in temporary crisis, and even those picking up meals for homebound, disabled, or elderly residents.

In May 2024, the Fridge was forced to close due to insurance changes with the CMF. This closure left a noticeable void in the community, as many residents have expressed how much they miss the service. Recognizing the urgent need for the Fridge, the Phoenix Web has been diligently working to find a solution.

Now, the Fridge is poised for a new beginning. And Phoenix Web has had a ton of support with this effort. There are plans to install a shed behind the paramedics' building on the corner of Bridge and Main Streets in the Village of Hunter, less than 300 feet from its original location. According to Abrahamsen, the shed arrived at the location on Tuesday. 

However, the project comes with significant costs. The shed, along with moving expenses, will cost $6,000. Additionally, the shed requires an electric hookup, estimated between $1,500 and $3,000, and must be added to Phoenix Web's business insurance policy, an additional $600.

Despite the challenges, there is hope. The project has received support from community leaders, including the Village of Hunter, and several large donations have been pledged. Volunteers have also stepped up, offering their time and effort, while local hardware stores have donated materials. Abrahamsen said, “My father, Sean Byrne, Daryl Mercer with the Bruderhof, Jonathan Gross, Ruby Reed, Ed Ezrick, and Michelle Yost have been busting as much butt as us at the Web.” However, more help is needed to reach the fundraising goal of $8,800.

Mars Abrahamasen and Phoenix Web are calling on the community to help bring the Fridge back. "Every dollar matters," said Abrahamsen. "This Fridge was a lifesaver for so many on the Mountaintop, and we need it now more than ever."

If the fundraising goal is met, any excess funds will be used to stock rarely donated items, cover future electricity costs, or create a fund for the Fridge's ongoing operations.

The Community Fridge is run by the Phoenix Web Collective, a free store at 7947 Main St. in the Village of Hunter. As of August 27, the fundraising campaign has raised $2,680 out of the $8,800 needed.

To support the Community Fridge and help bring it back to life, donations can be made here: bit.ly/FreeCommunityFridge.

With the community's help, the Fridge can once again become a vital resource for those who need it most.