Staten Island, N.Y. – In a heart‑warming effort to celebrate academic achievement, Zack’s Finest Deli & Grocery has turned its storefront into a reward hub for local students. Co‑owner and manager Wail Alselwy, known around the neighborhood as “Island Ock,” says the “Grades for Grabs” initiative began as a simple bet with a single student and has grown into a city‑wide phenomenon.
From a Bet to a Movement
Alselwy recalled the program’s origin on “Fox & Friends Weekend”: “It started with one report card, one kid and one milkshake. I had a bet with a kid named Zameir Davis that if he had good grades, he could grab whatever he wanted.” The idea resonated, and soon other families began bringing their children’s report cards to the deli.
How the Program Works
Students who present a recent report card showing high marks can walk out of Zack’s Finest with up to $100 in cash, a selection of snacks, and essential school supplies. Over the past three years, the deli has handed out thousands of dollars and countless snack packs, turning academic success into a tangible celebration.
Community Support and Funding
The program’s popularity has attracted attention far beyond Staten Island. Social‑media videos of proud parents and excited children have amassed millions of views, prompting supporters from across the United States and even Canada to contribute via a GoFundMe campaign. To date, the fundraiser has raised more than $575,000 toward a $650,000 goal, ensuring the program can continue and potentially expand.
Looking Ahead
Alselwy expressed a vision of scaling the initiative nationwide: “I want to take the program to the next level, into every city in the United States, not just keep it here in New York.” He noted that many parents are eager to see their children recognized for hard work, and that the deli’s model could be replicated in other communities.
Personal Motivation
Beyond the public impact, Alselwy shared a personal reason for launching the program. “At a time in my life, I was really down. My brother motivated me to get back up,” he said, emphasizing how family support helped him turn a difficult period into a positive community effort.
Local Impact
Teachers and school administrators have praised the program for reinforcing the value of education and encouraging students to strive for excellence. Parents report that the tangible rewards have boosted morale at home and created a sense of friendly competition among classmates.
While the deli’s “Grades for Grabs” program is not a government policy, it aligns with the community’s emphasis on parental involvement, personal responsibility, and the celebration of academic achievement. As the initiative continues to grow, it serves as a reminder that local businesses can play a pivotal role in fostering a culture of excellence for the next generation.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
