Her name is Irma, but to nearly everyone who stopped by the concession at the Whitecourt Curling Rink, she was known as Mama Gray. Mama Gray’s Kitchen came into being in 1990 when Irma – Mama Gray – and daughter, Kelly launched a catering business and operated the concession at the Whitecourt Curling Rink.
Irma retired in 1997, and in 2000, Kelly opened a small restaurant in Mayerthorpe. Since then, Kelly and her team have been actively involved in the catering business and operate the Arena Restaurant & Lounge in the Scott Safety Centre, Whitecourt.
The community has always been important to Kelly, as it was with Irma, and over the years, both have made many friends and acquaintances.
“We appreciate our customers and friends,” says Kelly, “and when we can, we’re happy to donate and support local charities and organizations.”
This past November, Kelly and her crew supported the Whitecourt Royal Canadian Legion poppy campaign. They also donated to minor hockey tournaments and supported the local soup kitchen with food and monetary donations. They have also contributed to various silent auctions, provided door prizes to Victim Services and other non-profit organizations.
This May, Spruce View Lodge experienced a Covid outbreak amongst the staff, leaving them without cooks for several weeks. On a couple of occasions, without being asked, and with nothing but a desire to help others in the community, Mama Gray’s catering division stepped up – donating baked goods and entire meals for all 50 residents.
The Scott Safety Centre is home to the Whitecourt Wolverines hockey team. Kelly and her team offer complimentary beverages to volunteers at every home game and support the team with a donation from sales.
“We believe in supporting other local businesses as customers,” explains Kelly. “It’s part of being a good member of the local business community.”
Kelly and her family have been in the Whitecourt area for over a century, and the business has been part of the community for over 30 years.
“We love this community,” says Kelly. “We love being here and growing with the community – helping out with various needs as they arise and doing our part to make Whitecourt vibrant and a desirable place to live.”
Kelly and her team at Mama Gray’s strive to be proactive and a positive asset to the community as a business and individuals.
Committed to the community – proud to be part of the local business landscape. That’s Mama Gray’s Kitchen & Catering. A local business that’s making a difference for Whitecourt and the surrounding area.
