Holiday grinches steal ‘village’ fridge in Liberty City

MIAMI – Miami police officers are searching for two devious holiday grinches who used a pickup truck to steal a refrigerator that was meant to help feed the poor in Liberty City.

Sherina Jones, a small business owner, placed the white “Village (FREE)DGE” next to the Roots Collective Black House clothing store along Northwest Seventh Avenue.

Jones, a cancer survivor, wanted anyone in the neighborhood who was hungry and couldn’t afford food during the pandemic to be able to quickly pick something up that was both fresh and healthy.

With the help of dozens of donors, she started the effort on Aug. 10 and set up two other Village (FREE)DGE locations.

Jones’ supporters reported the refrigerator stolen on Tuesday. They are asking anyone with information about the theft to call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477.

CORONAVIRUS SAFETY TIPS

Here are some precautions to help you celebrate Thanksgiving safely:

  • Celebrate at home with the people you live with and host a virtual gathering.
  • If you decide to risk hosting a Thanksgiving dinner, do it outside, limit the number of guests, clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and items between use. Use single-use options, like salad dressing and condiment packets, and disposable items like food containers, plates, and utensils. Limit the number of people in food preparation areas, have one person who is wearing protection serve food, or have guests bring their own food and drink.
  • If you decide to attend a gathering, bring your own food, drinks, plates, cups, and utensils. Avoid going in and out of the areas where food is being prepared or handled. Bring extra supplies, such as masks and hand sanitizer. Stay at least 6 feet apart, or about two arm lengths, from anyone who does not live with you.
  • When you are around people you don’t live with, wear a face mask with two or more layers over your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin. Safely store your mask while eating and drinking.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Avoid touching your face mask, eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Safely prepare traditional dishes and deliver them to family and neighbors in a way that does not involve contact with others such as by leaving them on the porch.

Source: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention


About the Authors:

Alex Finnie joined the Local 10 News team in May 2018. South Florida is home! She was raised in Miami and attended the Cushman School and New World School of the Arts for high school.

The Emmy Award-winning journalist joined the Local 10 News team in 2013. She wrote for the Miami Herald for more than 9 years and won a Green Eyeshade Award.