Founded by Dr. Michelle Nelson, Mama-Tee was started in 2020 as an apparel site that benefitted Philadelphia organizations fighting for racial equality. Since then, Mama-Tee has expanded to include the Mama-Tee Community Fridge Project, a way to provide fresh food to a variety of communities in Philadelphia. Now, with 18 fridges up and running, as well as a pop-up store, Dr. Nelson is moving on to her next project: a children's book about social responsibility titled Neighbors Helping Neighbors: The Mama-Tee Community Fridge Project. We spoke to Dr. Nelson and the team about the new book, why the project has been so rewarding, and what we can expect to see from them in the future.

Can you tell us about how Mama-Tee and Mama-Tee Fridge was born?

The brand Mama-Tee started in June 2020 as an e-commerce apparel site www.mama-tee.com, where a portion of the proceeds help support organizations fighting for racial equality and justice for all. Dr. Michelle Nelson, the founder of Mama-Tee had a vision for a development socially impactful mission. As a result, she launched The Mama-Tee Community Fridge Project.

You’ve grown to have ~18 fridges in the course of a year! What are your plans for the coming year?

We are very proud of what we have been able to accomplish since last year. The growth of The Mama-Tee Community Fridge Project is a reflection of the ongoing need for fresh food for communities in Philadelphia. We plan to continue our fundraising efforts and spreading awareness of #foodinsecurity nationwide.

What has been one of the most rewarding (or surprising) aspects of running a program like Mama-Tee Fridge?

When you feel the negativity taking place in society sometimes, it's a great surprise to witness the outpour of support and love from neighbors who pitch in, to help us succeed. Not to mention, we have the BEST volunteer crew! It restores your faith in humanity.

Tell us a little bit about your upcoming book – how did it come about? What made you decide to do it in the format of a children’s book?

As a past educator, our founder, Dr. Nelson felt it was important to teach children about social responsibility. Community fridges are a big part of the mutual aid movement of this generation. Dr. Nelson didn't see a resource for parents to have the conversation, so she decided to create one.

How can people help out in their own communities and neighborhoods? (Within Philadelphia + beyond.)

Mutual aid groups can be researched online. Googling local groups and contacting them directly is a great place to start. A social media search, and connecting with local city officials can also help. As a mutual aid organization, we strongly believe that communities are stronger when they are united. An easy first step towards helping your community is to get to know your neighborhood.

Any other exciting projects in the works that you’d like to tease out or share?

We are so excited for the release of our children's book, Neighbors Helping Neighbors: The Mama Tee Community Fridge Project. A portion of the proceeds benefits The Mama-Tee Community Fridge Project. Our goal is to sell at least 1000 books to support the project. We appreciate all of our neighbors, supporters and, partners sharing this information with their network, family and, friends.