In the vast wilderness of Alaska, where DoorDash isn't an option, a heartwarming tradition known as the Alaska Turkey Bomb is bringing Thanksgiving joy to residents living off the grid. Esther Keim, a local resident, has been piloting a small plane over rural parts of south-central Alaska for the third consecutive year, dropping frozen turkeys to those who lack easy access to grocery stores.
Alaska's rugged terrain, with only about 20% accessible by road, makes traditional food deliveries challenging. In winter, residents in remote areas rely on small planes or snowmobiles for transportation, with frozen rivers serving as makeshift roads.
Keim's inspiration for the turkey drop came from her childhood experiences when a family friend would airdrop turkeys to her family and neighbors during the holidays. Her mission began after learning of a family struggling to have a proper Thanksgiving meal, prompting her to take action.
Over the years, Keim's initiative has gained momentum through word of mouth and social media. This year, she's delivering 32 frozen turkeys to remote cabins where roads are nonexistent. Despite weather challenges, most deliveries have been successful, bringing joy to recipients like Dave and Christina Luce, who live 45 miles northwest of Anchorage.
Keim's annual turkey deliveries, spanning up to 100 miles from her base, rely on donations and careful planning. She coordinates with families through social media, ensuring they are outside to receive the turkey drop. While aiming for precision, Keim humorously admits to occasional misses, preferring to drop turkeys on frozen lakes for easy retrieval.
Keim's efforts have garnered appreciation from families, who often capture the turkey drops on video and express gratitude for the unique gesture. Looking ahead, Keim aspires to establish a nonprofit organization to expand her outreach beyond turkeys, aiming to bring joy to more remote communities in Alaska.
With her altruistic spirit and dedication, Esther Keim's Alaska Turkey Bomb has become a heartwarming Thanksgiving tradition, spreading joy and goodwill in the remote corners of the Last Frontier.
