Exploring the Potential of On-Campus Community Fridge Implementation

In collaboration with Seattle Community Fridges (SCF) and representatives of the UW Student Technology Fee (STF) Committee, capstone students explored the feasibility of implementing community fridges on the University of Washington Seattle campus to address the growing prevalence of food insecurity among students. Quantitative data were collected via survey to preliminarily assess the prevalence of food insecurity among UW students, as well as to determine which regions of campus are in higher need of food assistance. Additionally, the capstone teams developed a landscape analysis and food safety guide identifying potential stakeholders and necessary food safety permits to aid the STF Committee in cultivating a network of community fridges on campus. These community fridges would be strategically designed to address food insecurity within the community, fostering an environment in which UW students have the nutritional resources they need to fuel their minds and bodies and succeed in academics and beyond.

Community Partners: Emily Hovis, UW Department of Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences; Maddy and Tatiana, UW Campus Sustainability Fund; Kaelan Nesel and Teerth Mehta, Seattle Community Fridge Initiative; UW Environmental Health & Safety; Public Health – Seattle & King County; Sound Transit

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Project Type(s): Undergraduate Capstone

Author(s): Team 1: Glena Charlene Antonio, Angad Mahil, Leah Na, Christine Pastolero, Tingxuan Zhu // Team 2: Ariella De Vera Cornel, Justin Lee, Katherine Shih, Bryan Thai

Program(s): Food Systems Major

Year: 2025

Adviser(s):

• Yona Sipos