A Staten Island deli owner is gaining national attention for his "Grades for Grabs" initiative, which rewards students with cash and snacks for achieving good grades. Wail Alselwi, co-owner and manager of Zack's Finest Deli & Grocery, has seen his program evolve from a single bet with a student into a movement that draws attention from across the country.
Alselwi, known as "Island Ock," told "Fox & Friends Weekend" that the program began three years ago with a bet he made with a student named Zameir Davis. If Davis achieved good grades, he could take "whatever he wanted" from the store, starting with a milkshake. This initial success has since led to thousands of students visiting Zack's Finest Deli to show their report cards.
Students with high marks can receive up to $100 in cash, along with snacks and school supplies. Videos of the program have circulated on social media, with some clips garnering millions of views and highlighting the academic achievements of young participants. Parents have expressed appreciation for the program, and supporters nationwide have contributed to a GoFundMe campaign to sustain the initiative.
Alselwi stated his ambition is to expand "Grades for Grabs" beyond Staten Island and into every city across the United States. He noted that parents are enthusiastic about the program, with some families traveling from different states and even Canada to participate. The GoFundMe page for the initiative has raised over $575,000 towards its $650,000 goal.
Alselwi shared that he initiated the program during a difficult period in his life, crediting his brother with providing the motivation to persevere. The program's success has been documented through various social media posts and news coverage, showcasing the positive impact it has on students and the community.