Shopkeeper told honor roll student to take anything he wanted for free. What he chose said a lot about him

In New York’s Staten Island, a deli owner has employed a unique way to keep children in school and have them focus on getting good grades. Wail Alselwi is widely known for the palpable kindness he exudes, especially around children. On their way back from school, kids often drop by his shop to keep him abreast of their progress, which shows how personally invested Alselwi is in their future. His only condition is if you get good grades, then you receive $100 cash and get to pick anything from his store — free of cost. Popularly known as “Wally,” Alselwi makes lip-smacking sandwiches that are famous throughout New York City. However, he is best known as the man who incentivizes students to get on the “honor roll.”

The first time Russel got this opportunity, he rushed into the deli with a report card in hand and a big smile on his face. Russel went on to choose only four items (some candy and a beverage)—despite being handed $100 in cash—with Alselwi asking him thrice if he was sure that was all he wanted. The kid would only nod. As a bonus, since Russel had a grade average above 90%, Alselwi also threw in an ‘Island Ock’ t-shirt for the kid, ensuring that he heard how proud Alselwi was of him. “You [also] get to go to play at the Kickback Gamers Lounge around the corner… the whole week, for free,” the store owner added.

The next time Russel made the honor roll, Alselwi exclaimed upon seeing him at the door. “Russel, again? I see that stamp right there, man, honor roll!” This time around, the first things he grabbed were a bottle of water and a carton of eggs, which sent the internet into a tizzy. In fact, he grabbed little items of indulgence, focusing more on sustenance by grabbing milk, cookies, instant noodles, and other daily snacks. In a store full of mind-boggling treats, this kid seemed to know his priorities. His sense of empathy and responsibility towards family has bowled over the internet since. 

In the comments, @GrtWhtVvvV pointed out, “The fact that he didn’t even fold up his report card, cause he was so proud of it and carried it all the way to you, shows that he’s proud of himself. Keep up the good work!” ”Russell is not greedy. He is a good boy. Thank you for being there for him, and the other kids..motivating them,” wrote @MaukeC. @Richard123498 wrote, “That’s a good young man out there grab the eggs for mama.” @gsal234 wrote, “I would like to believe those $100 are for him but seeing the second thing he placed on the counter were eggs...yea his mind is on bigger things. luv it.”

Alselwi’s followers don’t just enjoy watching these children prosper but love seeing how Alselwi treats his daughters — playing and celebrating life with them. One may also catch an occasional glimpse of his cooking skills, with the videos sure to leave you hungrier than before.

Follow @islanddock1 on TikTok for more such #gradesforgrabs videos featuring children excitedly rushing into the deli with their report cards.