Residents in the most isolated areas of Alaska, where traditional delivery services don’t operate, are receiving something unexpected this Thanksgiving: frozen turkeys air-dropped by a dedicated pilot.
Esther Keim, a resourceful pilot, has taken up the mission of delivering frozen turkeys to people living in the remote regions of south-central Alaska. For three consecutive years, she has been navigating through the challenging Alaskan skies to ensure that those who reside off the beaten path can enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner. In the wilderness where only 20% is accessible by road, such initiatives become crucial as small planes or snowmobiles are often the only means of transportation during the harsh winter months.
Keim’s motivation traces back to her childhood in Alaska. Growing up on a homestead, she recalls how a family friend would drop turkeys for the holidays, sometimes even delivering newspapers with a pack of gum. Her family eventually moved to a more urban setting, but they still maintain the homestead. The idea for her current turkey delivery endeavor came into being when she learned about a nearby family struggling to have a decent Thanksgiving meal.
“They were telling me that a squirrel for dinner did not split very far between three people,” Keim remembered. That moment spurred her into action, and she decided to drop turkeys for them. Over time, this act grew, propelled by word of mouth and social media, into a wider effort. This year, she has planned to deliver 32 frozen turkeys to those living in cabins without road access, with only two deliveries delayed by Alaska’s erratic weather.
Dave and Christina Luce, who reside on the Yentna River, are among Keim’s recipients. Situated 45 miles northwest of Anchorage, the couple faces a 90-minute snowmobile journey to the nearest town. At 80, Dave Luce notes that such trips are becoming less frequent. Keim’s 12-pound turkey will more than suffice for them and their neighbors, providing a perfect Thanksgiving feast.
Keim’s turkey delivery mission spans up to 100 miles from her base north of Anchorage toward the Denali foothills. With the aid of donations, she purchases turkeys, often relying on a ‘turkey dropper’ to accompany her on these flight missions.
Social media plays a pivotal role in her operations. Keim contacts families online to notify them of forthcoming deliveries, ensuring they are present to witness the drop. She explained the importance of this process, remarking how a turkey once went missing for five days in deep snow. To avoid this, she aims to drop the birds on frozen lakes where they are easier to locate.
Keim’s target accuracy is improving, though she humorously admits her aim is not yet perfect. Her reward lies in the gratitude and positive feedback she receives from recipients, many of whom document the deliveries with videos and messages of thanks.
Looking ahead, Keim envisions establishing a nonprofit organization to secure more donations, thereby expanding the reach of her altruistic efforts. She aspires to extend this initiative beyond turkeys, possibly including items like stuffed animals for children in rural villages.
In a region where accessing essentials is often a formidable challenge, Esther Keim’s turkey delivery service provides not just a meal but a gesture of community and gratitude. Her efforts highlight the spirit of giving and community support, bringing joy to those in the most isolated parts of Alaska.
Source: Local10
