In response to an incredible success of their launch in 2021, Alberta breweries are banding together again in 2023 for a special beer in support of first responders.
“First Call was inspired last year,” said Shaun Caron, general manager of Campio Brewing in Edmonton.
“Obviously, throughout the pandemic, a lot of industries, a lot of different groups, people working, went through a lot of hardship. Health-care (workers) and first responders probably had one of the hardest times.”
Eight companies joined forces to come up with a way to help them out and First Call was born.
“Since we are a brewing company, a really easy was for us is to make a really good beer. The First Call name came from… when you’re usually call a first responder, it’s the first call you’re making on the worst day of your life. It’s paying homage to those people who are on the front lines helping us out when we need it.”
First Call is a team effort from Campio, Last Best Brewing Distilling, Jasper Brewing, Banff Ave Brewing, Canada Malting, Country Mault, Precision Labelling and Last Spike Brewing.
First call is described as an enjoyable, “approachable IPA” with flavours of grapefruit, tangerine and lime.
One dollar from each draft and each four-pack sold in house is donated to a charity or group that supports first responders.
Legacy Place Society is a chosen registered charity that supports the families and individuals of law enforcement, emergency medical/fire services, 911 dispatch, Veterans and Military Personnel. Their work includes provision of a confidential help phone line that facilitates connections to professional and peer support groups. Legacy Place operates 3 “home away from home” houses that provide safe and confidential transitional housing for their well-being, security and access to professional support as they recover from a broad range of serious difficulties.
Legacy Place also increases knowledge, reduce stigma and enable networking by organizing and facilitating education partnerships, mental wellness and suicide awareness workshops/conferences.
First Call is available at the four brew pups on draft and in cans and is also being distributed to several liquor stores across Canada.