Oak Bay Ice Cream Shop Launches Flavor to Support Kids with Cancer

A new initiative at 49 Below Ice Cream in Oak Bay aims to support children facing cancer through a unique flavor launch. On February 15, 2024, the ice cream shop will introduce the Fairy Berry Sherbert, a nut-free, gluten-free, and egg-free blend of strawberry, raspberry, and blackberry. For every pint sold, $2 will be donated directly to the Island Kids Cancer Association (IKCA).

Community Involvement and Flavor Creation

The creation of the Fairy Berry flavor included direct input from families affected by childhood cancer. IKCA families participated in selecting their favorite from three custom-designed flavors. Ice cream maker Dan Edler expressed the significance of this involvement, stating, “Having families directly involved made this project especially meaningful. It was a privilege to welcome families into our store to help create and sample the special-edition flavor. We’re honoured to support IKCA and the incredible families they serve.”

This philanthropic effort, termed a “philanthropint,” aligns with 49 Below’s ongoing commitment to community support, which began in 2020. The business collaborates with various individuals and organizations to create flavors that contribute a portion of the proceeds to charitable causes.

Supporting Families in Need

The Island Kids Cancer Association plays a vital role in assisting families impacted by childhood cancer. Their services include financial assistance, mental health support, food programs, and community programming throughout Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. According to Jenna Remedios, program and partnership lead at IKCA, “We’re currently supporting more than 230 families. Community support like this is deeply meaningful. When local businesses step up, it not only helps fund our programs, it reminds families they are not alone.”

The launch of the Fairy Berry flavor coincides with International Childhood Cancer Awareness Day, providing a platform to raise awareness while delivering tangible support to local families facing these challenges. The flavor will be available at the 49 Below Ice Cream location in Oak Bay until the end of February, or while supplies last.

For further information about the initiative or to learn more about the services offered by IKCA, interested parties can visit ikca.ca or 49below.ca.