Two kids from Rotonda West raised about $3,253 for the family of Charlotte County Sgt. Elio Diaz , who died in the line of duty Dec. 15.
What started as a simple lemonade stand became a powerful display of kindness and community support.
"Like, we just felt really bad and wanted to do something to support their family and something just to help," Abby Morford, one of the siblings, said.
She and her brother, Jack, set up shop in their neighborhood. The children quickly attracted neighbors and passersby.
Many were moved by the children’s compassion. Word spread thanks to Facebook, and donations began to pour in, even from out-of-state supporters.
"We just really want to thank everyone who came out and supported. We even had Venmo from out of state, from people who live here part-time that weren't able to make it. You know, it's just incredible," Rhonda Morford, Abby and Jack's mother, said.
Diaz left behind his wife and four children. The thousands raised by the lemonade stand were donated directly to his family, helping to ease the financial burden during this incredibly difficult time.