Betcha Didn’t Know: Uncovering Reisterstown’s Hidden Gems – Episode 20
The Heart Behind Reisterstown’s Community Fridge
In this episode of Betcha Didn’t Know: Uncovering Reisterstown’s Hidden Gems, host Stacey Abbott of Corner House Realty and Reisterstown Main Street invites viewers to discover the heart and hard work behind one of Reisterstown’s most compassionate community projects.
Every neighborhood has its quiet heroes...people who see a need, roll up their sleeves, and simply begin. In Reisterstown, one of those heroes is Alessandra Keener, the driving force behind the Reisterstown Community Fridge & Little Free Library located at 303 Shirley Manor Road.
It’s easy to drive past without realizing the impact happening right in front of you. Step a little closer, though, and you’ll find a community powered project built on simple acts of generosity, respect, and trust.
A Simple Idea With a Huge Impact
Alessandra started the community fridge with one goal in mind, to make it easier for neighbors to help neighbors. With the rising cost of groceries and the increasing pressure on household budgets, food insecurity can creep into anyone’s life, even temporarily.
The fridge offers a judgment free place where residents can give what they can and take what they need...no questions no barriers.
What makes this fridge special is not just the food inside, but the philosophy behind it. Alessandra emphasizes respect, anonymity, and the idea that everyone deserves access to basic necessities. It’s a powerful reminder that community care doesn’t have to be complicated to be effective.
Most Needed Items (Right Now)
During our visit, Alessandra shared the items that help the most and disappear from the shelves the fastest. These include simple pantry staples:
Canned meals and hearty soups
Pasta, sauces, rice, boxed meals
Beans (baked, refried, canned)
Tuna, canned chicken
Apple sauce, granola bars, snacks
Cooking oil, salad dressings
Chicken stock, macaroni & cheese
Non-expired, shelf-stable foods in jars, cans, bottles, or sealed packets are always welcome.
How You Can Get Involved
Whether you're an individual, a family, or a local business, there are several easy ways to support the Reisterstown Community Fridge
Drop Off Food- Stop by any time and place items directly into the fridge or on the shelves. It’s open 24/7 and easy to access.
Share the Word- A simple social media post or conversation with a neighbor helps keep donations flowing and increases awareness of the resource.
Organize a Mini Food Drive- Schools, scout troops, churches, clubs, and businesses often love to participate in small, meaningful service projects—and this is a perfect fit.
Donate Books-The Little Free Library stays busy with children and adults alike. Gently used books are always appreciated.
A Reminder of What Community Really Means
Spending time with Alessandra and seeing the fridge up close was a reminder of why Reisterstown’s spirit is so special. This project isn’t run by a large organization or a big budget, just residents with a huge hearts, supported by neighbors who care and proof that meaningful change can start, at home, with something as simple as sharing a can of soup.
If you’d like to learn more, donate, or get involved, visit:
Facebook.com/ReisterstownCommunityFridgeAndLittleFreeLibrary
Or email [email protected]
Click here to read more Information on Donations
