Northern Lights recipient – Chris Keim

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Location: Blackfalds, Alberta

When faced with having to close his coffee shop, After the Grind, due to COVID-19, Blackfalds resident Chris Keim saw an opportunity to support the community. He partnered with the Blackfalds Food Bank, where he also serves as vice chair, and the Blackfalds Family and Community Support Services to launch the Lunch Box Program. This initiative assists low-income families by offering healthy breakfast, lunch and snacks every Tuesday and Thursday. By utilizing the coffee shop, Chris provides space for food preparation and staff with food handling certification.

According to his nominator, “Chris exemplifies volunteerism by leading by example and being the change he wants to see in the community. Chris feels it is important that he impacts the lives of those in the community, especially those living with food insecurity.”