November 21, 2025 - Madison County now has a Free Community Refrigerator - a collaborative effort aimed at increasing access to fresh food, reducing waste, and supporting neighbors in need. This new resource is made possible through a partnership with the N.C. Cooperative Extension Madison County Center, the Madison County Health Department, My Sister's Attic Thrift Storeand volunteers like you!

“I’m thrilled to welcome the Freedge program to Madison County,” said Tammy Cody, Health Director of the Madison County Health Department. “Food insecurity remains one of our community’s biggest challenges, and this initiative will help get free, fresh, healthy foods—especially fruits and vegetables—to our residents. Programs like Freedge not only address hunger but also support long-term health by making nutritious options accessible 24/7. Far too many Madison County families still struggle to afford nutritious food. This program will offer a dignified, no-questions-asked way for residents to access fresh fruits, vegetables, and other items as they become available.  This is a powerful tool for promoting both food security and better health across our community.”

Guided by the motto: “Take what you need for one meal, give what you can” the community refrigerator welcomes individuals and families to access fresh food whenever they need it. Community members, local farmers, gardeners, and businesses are encouraged to contribute fresh items to help keep the refrigerator stocked. Donation guidelines are posted on the refrigerator and listed below.

“We are excited to initiate this resource in Madison County as a simple, accessible way for neighbors to care for neighbors in a direct way,” said Jessica Mollet with the N.C. Cooperative Extension Madison County Center.

The Freedge is located at My Sister's Attic Thrift Store, 3477 NC-213 in Marshall and is available 24/7 to everyone. For more information about donating food or getting involved with the Freedge Program, please contact:

Community Freedge Guidelines

• Do not handle food if you are sick.
• Only touch food that you are going to take home.
• It takes a community! Wipe up any spills or messes you create.
• The Freedge will be routinely monitored and food disposed of as appropriate.
• The Freedge is cleaned weekly.

Food Donations Remember first in, first out! Newer items should be placed further back to avoid food going bad.

• Washed fresh whole fruits and vegetables.
• Meals or food made in a commercial kitchen or purchased in a store. Must be packaged individually, labeled, and dated.

• Commercially-produced dairy products: milk, cheese, yogurt etc.
• Commercially-produced fruit juices.
• Eggs with a use-by date. Place on the bottom shelf.

• Homemade meals, food.
• Leftovers from events or restaurants.
• Unsealed or opened items.
• Packaged items without use-by date.
• Expired items.
• Unlabeled items.
• Foods that are temperature hot.
• Pet food.
• Anything unsafe for children.
• Cold cuts/deli meat, bacon, hot dogs, or sausages.
• Raw meat, fish, or seafood.