Portside

New York City is considered by many to be the greatest city in the world, not only for its stunning skyline, fine dining, cultural exhibits, and rich history, but also for its vibrant community and resilience.

In 2020, the city was reeling from COVID-related lockdowns, with many people losing their jobs. Food banks and other social services were overwhelmed. It was then that Asmeret Berhe-Lumax decided to do something. The former fashion and beauty executive decided to set up a community fridge in Brooklyn’s Bed-Stuy community, rallying support from family and friends to keep that one fridge stocked with nutritious food.

That one little act of community grew into a grassroots movement. Since then, One Love Community Fridge now operates 10 of its community fridges and supports an additional 30 partner fridges in New York City and Seattle—with Los Angeles and Atlanta soon to follow — each offering free food for neighbors in need. The registered nonprofit partners with farmers, community gardens, restaurants, schools, and food purveyors to stock the fridges. The organization’s ultimate goal is to completely eradicate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition through an integrated movement that includes access to fresh food, nutrition education, and sustainability.

This year, the inaugural North America’s 50 Best Restaurants is honoring Berhe-Lumax with the “Champions of Change” award, which celebrates unsung heroes of the hospitality sector who are driving positive action in their communities and creating blueprints for a more inclusive society.

William Drew, director of content for North America’s 50 Best Restaurants, says: "We are proud to name Asmeret as the inaugural recipient of the Champions of Change Award for North America’s 50 Best Restaurants. Through her visionary leadership of One Love Community Fridge, Asmeret has created not just access to fresh, healthy food through community fridges but also a powerful community-led movement grounded in inclusion, education, and sustainability. Her work exemplifies the spirit of the “Champions of Change” award – grassroots action that drives real, long-term progress in food and society.”

In return, Berhe-Lumax says she is honored to receive the award, which includes a grant to forward the organization’s mission. “This support not only amplifies the reach and impact but will also serve as a powerful inspiration for others to join in and contribute. This award is a testament to what’s possible when a community comes together. One Love Community Fridge embodies the power of food to nourish, to unite us, and to promote health, healing and collective care rooted in dignity. Small, consistent actions can lead to big, meaningful change.”

The “Champions of Change” is the first of three awards to be announced ahead of the inaugural North America’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 awards ceremony, taking place at the Wynn Las Vegas on Thursday, September 25. The “Art of Hospitality” and the “One To Watch” awards will be announced leading up to the event.

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