By Madilyn Moore
Contributing Writer
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, school districts across Oklahoma are providing lunches for students who are in need of a meal. In an act of goodwill, Kona Ice has been giving out free shaved ice to school staff who are handing out those rations.
Public relations specialist Jessica Tcholakov said the initiative by Kona Ice started April 1.
“Kona Ice is planning to serve all of the schools that are providing free curbside lunches to students,” said Tcholakov. “According to (owner Joe Lindsey), this is more than 50 schools that he serves.”
Employees of Kona Ice are taking safety precautions and are adhering to strict health guidelines.
“Kona Ice is following the safety protocols put in place by the CDC and local government and state officials as well as Kona Korporate,” said Tcholakov. “This includes constant re-gloving and sanitation.”
In addition to free shaved ices, owner Joe Lindsey and his wife will be hand-sewn masks for staff as well.
“The Lindseys are currently in the process of making homemade masks for the school staff, they went out and purchased sewing machines and fabric,” Tcholakov said.
Lindsey said about 80 masks have been completed and as many as 200 will be produced.
Lindsey began his Kona Ice franchise June 2014.
“Handing out ices to me is about giving back to the community,” said Lindsey. “No one thinks about the teachers. There are also background people working just as hard.”
For more information about the Kona Ice neighborhood routes and stops visit their Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Kona-Ice-YukonMustangNorman-478159995660699/?redirect=false
