Advocate Saif Alam’s initiative during Ramadan helps travellers and locals, regardless of caste and religion.
Team Clarion
MUMBAI – A ‘Community Fridge’ installed in the Govandi suburb in the eastern part of this metropolitan city is providing free food to hundreds of needy people and travellers, irrespective of their caste and religion, during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan.
The project initiated by advocate Saif Alam does not rely on charity or zakat funds and has been widely praised for fostering dignity and unity in the area.
Alam, a resident of Cheeta Camp, set up the fridge after witnessing extreme poverty in Govandi during the COVID-19 pandemic. The fridge, which can store up to 300 kg of food, is stocked with fruits, curd, rice, and other essentials. It is refilled every two days, costing around ₹3,000 per refill.
Speaking to the media, Alam said: “During the pandemic, we received countless calls from people in Govandi who were struggling. Many were migrants living in terrible conditions. That’s when we decided to act.” Along with friends, including former assembly candidate Fahad Ahmed, he formed the NGO ‘Exa Education Foundation to expand their efforts.
The idea for the fridge came after Alam researched public service models. “We didn’t know ‘community fridges’ were common in places like Dubai. The beauty is that people who feel shy asking for help can take what they need without hesitation,” he explained.
Despite initial concerns about misuse or damage in a densely populated area like Govandi, the fridge has been treated with respect. “Ramadan’s spirit has played a role — people take only what they need,” Alam noted.
The fridge is located near the NGO’s office in Nirankar Nagar and is rented monthly. Unlike traditional charity, the food is not funded by Zakat, making it accessible to all, including working professionals who may need a quick meal. “Even a busy traveller can take something for iftar without guilt,” Alam said.
The initiative is sustained by contributions from Alam’s friends and relatives, including Sheikh Ishtiaq, Salman Sheikh, and Raza. Their collective effort ensures the fridge remains stocked, helping those in need while promoting a sense of shared responsibility.
As the fridge continues to serve the community, Alam hopes it will inspire similar acts of kindness. “This isn’t just about food — it’s about dignity and bringing people together,” he said.
For now, the ‘Community Fridge’ stands as a small but powerful symbol of compassion in Govandi.
