Power NI brings festive support to East Belfast Mission’s Community Fridge

A Community Fridge project operating in East Belfast can continue to support the needs of local individuals and families after it received a four-figure donation from Power NI.

Awarded through the leading energy provider’s Brighter Communities initiative, the £1000 cash boost is being used by East Belfast Mission to purchase essential new equipment.

The donation will cover the cost of more tables, which will enhance the team’s ability to deliver its service effectively and safely, especially as demand for it continues to grow.

The Community Fridge is a vital initiative that helps reduce food insecurity and food waste by redistributing surplus food without any means-based testing. This accessible service continues to be a lifeline for those suffering financial hardship, especially at Christmas.

In 2024 alone, the Community Fridge welcomed around 1,450 visitors and diverted an impressive 124 tonnes of food from landfill. The local project also distributed over 1,500 Christmas food hampers, ensuring vulnerable families could enjoy a hearty festive meal.

On Christmas Day last year, the Community Fridge opened its doors, providing a place of warmth and companionship for up to sixty guests who would otherwise have been alone.

Klaudia Killough, the Individual Giving Officer at East Belfast Mission, said: “This funding enables us to continue delivering essential services for those who need them most in East Belfast. We are truly thankful for this support, which helps us make a real difference in people’s lives.”

Through practical assistance, employment programmes, and a wide range of community initiatives, East Belfast Mission been a cornerstone of support for individuals and families by transforming people’s lives – and bringing fresh optimism to those who need it most. It continues to rely on the generosity of partners like Power NI to make a lasting difference

Ashleigh O’Neill, the Senior Marketing and Communications Executive at Power NI, said: “We are extremely proud to be able to support East Belfast Mission through our Brighter Communities initiative.

Their on-going Community Fridge project makes a real difference in people’s lives every day, and we are delighted that our funding will help strengthen such a vital community resource,” she added.