One thing that has become clear during the past few months is that Kelowna is full of creative, generous, and caring people and businesses. In celebration of all the good deeds and fun initiatives that have and continue to happen, here is a handful of some good news we’ve come across.
Arion Therapeutic Farm
In the hills of southeast Kelowna lays a special animal rescue, Arion Therapeutic Farm. As they have plenty of space and most of their business takes place outdoors, Arion has been welcoming visitors since the pandemic by encouraging people to be outside and interact with animals (in a safe way) and as a result, many kind Kelowna residents have stepped up to “adopt” therapy animals by covering some of the monthly expenses. Visit them for a farm tour or purchase a membership, find out more here.
Giobean
The staff and owners of Giobean on Water Street have been adapting to safety regulations during the pandemic as new information comes available all the while having a TON of fun. They have posted videos of staff doing viral dances and even created the above video showing off their new protocols to safely serve customers. Click here to view another video and keep an eye out for the owner, Giovanni, some might say he’s the highlight of each video!
Quails’ Gate Estate Winery
To celebrate their 30th vintage, Quails’ Gate released their 2019 Limited Edition Rosé, in a MAGNUM! With every in-store purchase of this until July 1st of the 1.5 litre bottle of wine made from Gamay Noir and Pinot Noir grapes, $5 will go towards the BC Hospitality Foundation. The BCHF is a charity that raises funds to support those in the hospitality industry that face financial crisis due to a health condition and during these crazy times, support for the charity is needed now more than ever.
Forbidden Spirits
Shifting gears from only producing top notch spirits to using ethanol to make sanitizer, Forbidden Spirits was quick to notice a need in the community. As part of their initiative, they provide sanitizer either in amounts of 1L or in three 355ml containers for $5 with every dollar earned going to a local charity. The BC SPCA, Kelowna Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity and Mama’s For Mama’s are a few charities to benefit from the initiative. To get involved or to get your own sanitizer click here.
Tantalus Vineyard
As COVID-19’s impact began to spread through Canada, Tantalus saw a need to help those in our communities that are the most vulnerable and since Tantalus ships country-wide, contributing to a national organization to help was a perfect fit. So throughout the month of April, as part of BC Wine Month, Tantalus donated $1 from every bottle purchased to Food Banks Canada they raised $7830!
In This Together
Now, this is a community coming together! “In This Together” is a collaboration of three small businesses who are working together to support other small businesses in the service industry throughout the Okanagan. When a super cute and comfortable t-shirt is purchased 100% of the profits will go towards helping those hit hard during the pandemic. See who’s involved and purchase a shirt here.
Accommodators
Kelowna's hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts have stepped up to the plate offering front line workers reduced rates to during the COVID-19 crisis. Ensuring families of healthcare workers are safe by providing a comfortable, affordable and safe place to rest their heads has been an essential service in our community to help flatten the curve. View some of the accommodators providing discounts or special rates here.
Do you know of other great initiatives that have taken place in the community? Let us know via email: info@tourismkelowna.com
