Fill the Fridge

This July, as schools close for summer break, many children and families lose access to reliable meals provided through school cafeterias. LBRA's ServeBR has partnered with The Red Shoes and our community fridges to help fill that gap. On Friday, July 18, 2025, our alumni community is stepping up to stock fridges across Baton Rouge - and we need your help! 

THREE WAYS TO FILL THE FRIDGE:

#1 - Purchase Nonperishable Items via our Amazon Wishlist.
This is the easiest way to give. Select items that fit your budget and checkout. All items will be shipped directly to SSA Consultants, who are collecting donations for delivery on July 18. Deadline for delivery: Thursday, July 17.

#2 - Purchase & Drop Off Perishable Items.Sign up to purchase and deliver fresh items directly to the fridges. See our signup form for a full list of requested items and drop-off locations.

#3 - Plan a Packing or Cooking Party with your Class
Grab your #BestClassEver or a group of friends to prep meals together! You'll sign up to cook and deliver ready-to-go meals. See our signup form for full info. 

Why Now? Why July?
Summer months create a perfect storm for food insecurity:

• Many children rely on school meals for breakfast and lunch. When school is out, those consistent meals disappear. 
• Summer camps, programs, and childcare options that provide meals can be expensive or limited.
• Foods costs often rise in summer, and energy bills climb as families struggle with higher utilities. 
• Donations to food programs typically slow down after the holiday season, leaving shelves and fridges emptier in summer. 

That's why we're focusing our efforts now - to meet this seasonal spike in need.

The Need in Our Community
In 2023, 16.3% of East Baton Rouge Parish residents - over 73,000 people - experienced food insecurity. That includes children, families, and neighbors who face tough choices every day between food, rent, utilities, and healthcare. Together, we can ease that burden, even for a day.

What's Needed?
Sandwiches & Quick Meals – Pre-made sandwiches, wraps, and grab-and-go meals that are easy to eat on the move.Fresh Produce – Fruits and vegetables like apples, oranges, bananas, carrots, and salad greens for nutritious options.
Toiletries & Hygiene Items – Soap, deodorant, toothpaste, menstrual products, and wet wipes for those in need of basic care essentials.
Kid-Friendly Snacks – Cheese sticks, yogurt cups, fruit pouches, granola bars, and other easy-to-eat items for children.
Heat & Eat Meals – Microwaveable or ready-to-eat meals such as canned soups, instant noodles, frozen dinners, and meal kits.
Hydration Essentials – Bottled water, sports drinks, electrolyte packets, and flavored water to help beat the heat.
Community Recipe Kits – Share a favorite simple recipe and donate all the ingredients needed for others to make it themselves.

Learn More about The Red Shoes  |  Join the LBRA ServeBR Committee