January 15 marked Ken Hayward Day at Hayward’s Deli in Sloatsburg. The annual day of celebration features free coffee and treats in honor of Hayward, who died suddenly in mid-July of 2014 at just 57 years old.

This year the Sloatsburg Food Pantry collected some $20,000 in tips from customers for the Food Pantry.

Whether collecting coins at the deli counter for those in need, delivering holiday turkeys to the Sloatsburg Food Pantry or supporting Sloatsburg Elementary School during Olympic Day, Hayward’s Deli has been generous with its community support.

The tradition of giving back to the community started under Ken Hayward and has continued with Lauren Hayward.

Hayward’s Deli is synonymous with giving. Patrons have given some $15 thousand in coins each of the past three years in the Hayward’s tip jar, which raises funds for the Sloatsburg Food Pantry. That in itself is an amazing feat.