‘Shout out to you all’: Vandalized Richmond community fridge quickly replaced after neighbors step in

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — A Richmond resource damaged by vandalism is back up and running thanks to neighbors who stepped in to help.

The RVA Community Fridges' Carytown location was vandalized in the early morning hours of Wednesday, Sept. 24.

For years, the nonprofit mutual aid organization has been a go-to source for free food. The organization encourages neighbors to take what they need and give what they can -- but that effort was hit with a minor setback.

“This morning we had a little minor vandal on the fridge," said founder Taylor Scott. "The fridge was essentially tipped over and the food was thrown out of it."

The hand-painted fridge was destroyed, along with the home-cooked meals and produce inside.

(Photo: RVA Community Fridges)

(Photo: RVA Community Fridges)

Screenshot of @quicknessrva Instagram post (Photo: Quickness RVA)

(Photo: RVA Community Fridges)

(Photo: RVA Community Fridges)

(Photo: Paul Nevadomski, 8News)

“There were full portions of prepared goods [inside] -- so a lot was lost at the end,” Scott said.

Despite the sudden inconvenience, she said the outpouring of support overshadowed the loss. Within minutes of RVA Community Fridges posting about the vandalism on social media, dozens of neighbors mobilized to offer support.

“Before 8 a.m., community members were out here helping us clean up the floor,” Scott said.

She also expressed the need for a truck to remove the broken fridge and replace it with a new one. Shortly after that request, another resident stepped in.

“Someone reached out and told us that they had a truck and a fridge at home, and I was like, 'Well, that’s a twofer,'" she said. "'I love a twofer, let’s do it!'”

This isn't the first time a community fridge has been vandalized. The same fridge was targeted in 2024, at a different Carytown location.

While nearby cameras may have captured the culprit in this case, Scott said she has no interest in pressing charges. Instead, she hopes to share a different message.

“If you’re out there and you did this and you need some assistance, please let us know,” Scott said.

Through it all, Scott has kept a positive outlook and wants to remind the community that these fridges are available 24/7. To donate to these efforts or to view a full list of the fridge locations, visit the nonprofit's website.