Lily Forsyth (left) and Allyne Simonot. (Supplied photo)

By Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools

"Big Smile" burger

Students cook up special burger in support of Smiles Thru Lindsey

May 11, 2021 | 8:00 AM

Throughout the month of May, purchase a “Big Smile” burger from Cilantro and Chive in Red Deer and $2 will be donated to the Smiles Thru Lindsey Foundation as part of École Secondaire Notre Dame High School’s grad service project.

This year’s goal for the project is to raise $40,000.

Grade 12 students Lily Forsyth and Allyne Simonot worked with Cilantro and Chive to design the burger, featuring some of Lindsey’s favourite ingredients, as a great way to raise money for an amazing cause.

The “Big Smile” features marinated chicken breast, bacon, a sunny fried egg, arugula, tomato, balsamic glaze and a lime avocado aioli on a brioche bun and is served with hand-cut fries.

“The Class of 2021 agreed that in light of COVID-19 mental health should be a priority now more than ever,” said Simonot. “Lindsey More was, like us, a Notre Dame graduate. After she tragically took her life in 2015, her family began Smiles Thru Lindsey. She was a regular happy girl, nothing seemingly wrong. She was involved in the school community through sports and the grad service project of 2011. We knew that our school community would connect to her and her story as easily as it has.”

mall went on lockdown

Two youths arrested at Bower Place after firearms complaints

12h ago

future use uncertain

Downtown building removed, but fire-ravaged property next door remains

May 18, 2024

2024 Red Deer grad ceremonies coming up soon

May 18, 2024

“This cause is actually very personal for me, it is another way for me to support my friends who are struggling, a way to communicate to every person who is willing to listen that they are not alone,” explained Forsyth. “That everyone is feeling or has felt a toll on their mental health and that there are resources and people out there to help.”

“In a year of such uncertainty, I am so proud of how our students have found such unique ways to fundraise and create awareness for mental health. Through their dedication and creativity, they have been able to partner with some amazing local businesses allowing the entire community the opportunity to be part of our quest to end the stigma surrounding mental health,” said Principal Rose McQuay at École Secondaire Notre Dame High School.

“We get to meet the wonderful people who work tirelessly behind the scenes in deserving organizations while enjoying delicious burgers created and inspired by amazing people in our community,” said Rieley Kay, owner of Cilantro and Chive restaurant. “In just over four years we have been able to give back over $80,000 to local charities and organizations in our own backyard. Thank you to École Secondaire Notre Dame High School for being a part of our Burger of the Month and having some fun with us, while raising awareness for Smiles Thru Lindsey.”