THE city opened its first community fridge on Sunday, with the aim of cutting food waste and helping residents in need. It is located in Puxiong Road, Putuo District.

"Anyone, whether living in the community or not, can claim food from the fridge after a simple registration," said the neighborhood committee director Zhang Jing. "For example, if you forget to make breakfast for your son, he can just pick up something here. Elderly residents living alone can also get fresh food and chat with volunteers here."

The fridge is housed in a community reading room for the elderly and can be used from 8:30am to 11:30am and 1:30pm to 5pm. The stock yesterday included boxes of milk, yogurt and pastries. The foods are supplied by two local supermarkets nearby, a restaurant and a food bank.