Two eighth-grade students from Salk Middle School took initiative to give back to their community on Saturday, Oct. 4, hosting an Apple Cider Bake Stand to benefit Project Thank a Cop.
Courtney Neglia said the idea came from a desire to support local law enforcement. “We wanted to do something to show our appreciation for the police officers who keep our town safe. Project Thank a Cop felt like the perfect way to give back!” she said.
Bella Chlebek added, “It's amazing to see that kids our age can actually make a difference. We started with a small idea and ended up raising so much for a wonderful cause and bringing a community together.”
The girls spent weeks preparing for the event, visiting local businesses for donations, creating flyers and posters, and baking treats. Their hard work drew a large crowd of neighbors, community members, teachers, police officers, family, and friends.
Local officials also attended, including Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray, County Legislator Michael Giangregorio, Councilman Chris Schneider, and political figures Steve Rhoads and Kayla Knight. Project Thank a Cop founders Meagan and Andy Fox helped with sales, promoted merchandise, and shared details about their upcoming Shop with a Cop holiday fundraiser.
Visitors enjoyed a variety of treats, including donuts and apple-cider lemonade, and even had the chance to “dunk a cop.” The bake stand raised over $1,500, demonstrating how young people can make a meaningful impact in their community.
