(submitted photo/Connie Baumann)

By Tiffany Goodwein

smile sunday

Kona Ice brings joy to group home residents

May 2, 2021 | 9:16 AM

MEDICINE HAT, AB- Smiling faces were aplenty Thursday as a local business spread some cheer to residents living in a group home.

Kona Ice, which makes shaved iced treats came by to deliver some joy to all six residents and staff at a Next Step Residential Services group home. The timing comes as many of the residents have been shut-in, unable to see family, and get out into the community due to the COVID-19 restrictions

Wanting to do something to perk them up Commie Baumann and the team at Next Step Residential Services contacted Debbie Dunn of Kona Ice, who came to the group home, with the treats all ready to go

“ She showed up and all of our individuals were out on the front lawn, enjoying the beautiful sunshine, and they were laughing and smiling, more than I have seen in a really long time,” said programs manager Connie Baumann

Debbie Dunn owner of Kona Ice said she was happy to do what she could to help.

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“ It is something so little, but for those people who can’t leave their house as easily, it just makes their day, and we are happy that we are able to do that” Dunn said.

Kona Ice has been operational for seven years in the city, and regularly gives back.

Last Saturday, Kona Ice delivered 30 Kona’s to kids in the city who have been asked to isolate.

“ They were so happy, they were all patiently waiting. Some parents didn’t let them know so they looked outside and Kona was right outside their door which was pretty cool for them, especially when you are little,” Dunn said.

With the loss of large events, the pandemic has resulted in revenue loss for the business. Still, Dunn said, they are amazed and thankful for the community support.

“ Medicine Hat is so awesome, and whenever we are out we are always super busy. We want to give back as much as we can, but we do that with the help of the community too,” Dunn said