Two young entrepreneurs turned a bad situation into a great opportunity thanks to the neighborhood and police.
On Monday, twins Katelyn Smidt (9 years old) were operating their lemonade stand as normal. However, an unknown person reportedly pulled over her car and took their tip jar.
The Smidt family called Ames Police Department in Iowa to report their theft. They didn't know that local officers and the community would rally to support Katelyn, Elias and make up the difference.
Ames Officer Celena Rohland, a first responder from Ames, reportedly informed colleagues and other first responders about the theft of the tip jar.
Within 24 hours, many firefighters and officers stopped at the lemonade stand to get a few cups of fresh lemonade.
"Officer Rohland and the first responders of our community changed the tides when they showed up to show their support after the robbery," Katelyn and Elias' mother Karen Smidt told Fox News. "Our kids went from scared and unsure how to trust the next person...to wide-eyed, smiling and so excited to serve them lemonade."
Smidt stated that many of the first responders who stopped at the stand were from the Ames Police Department and Iowa State University Police Department. Story County Sheriff's Office, Ames Fire Department and Ames Police Department.
She said, "Our street was full of police cars and firetrucks and lots of smiles." "Because those first responders, the kids felt a renewed energy and wanted their stand to open the next day...and so on." We were overwhelmed by the generosity of our community and are still amazed at their support."
Fox News reached out to representatives at the Ames Police Department for comment but they did not respond immediately.
According to Smidt, an investigation into the theft continues.
Smidt stated, "Life is not without its hard parts." "The community's generosity has given our children something they will always remember."
The generous tips Katelyn and Elias have made will be donated to Shop with a Cop, Smidt told Fox News. According to the Ames Police Foundation, the local program is designed to make holidays brighter for families with low incomes.
Smidt said that her children taught her that good can come despite difficulties if you keep your feet on the ground.
She continued, "This community showed so many what it feels like to truly come together."
