CTV News Edmonton has reported:

North-Central Co-op is donating $50,000 to fund the Zebra Centre’s snack program for a year. The Edmonton non-profit supports children who have experienced abuse as they navigate the justice system. The co-op announced the gift Friday at its Hawkstone location in west Edmonton.

Officials from both organizations say snacks can offer comfort and a sense of normalcy to children facing stressful situations. Emmy Steubing, the Zebra Centre’s chief executive officer, said children arrive after experiencing abuse and that the centre wants to make their time there gentler as staff guide them through the process.

“Snacks, having a full tummy, makes a big difference when they’re having to come for all these different kinds of meetings and interviews,” Steubing told CTV News Edmonton on Friday.

Candice Kline, CEO of North-Central Co-op, said supporting the centre “felt like it aligned with our values.” Her organization also offers snack and lunch programs. Kline said 66 organizations and charities applied for grants.

“The core value of Co-ops is that we are here for community,” Kline said Friday. “It’s one of our main values being a cooperative, and what makes us a bit different in our communities is that we give back to the communities that we work, live and play in.”