In the wake of the bomb that detonated in Chelsea on Saturday night, New Yorkers are coming together with small acts of kindness.
One local Starbucks worker handed out hot drinks and pastries to New York Police Department officers as they guarded the scene of the explosion.
"I want to give y'all some coffee and some pastries," the employee said. “I just wanted to thank y’all. I wish I could do more."
When the bombs were discovered in New York and New Jersey over the weekend, New Yorkers anticipated a backlash against the Muslim community.
Even before police sent out emergency text alerts without photos of the suspect—only identifying him by his name, Ahmad Khan Rahami—people in the city opened their arms to anyone who might feel threatened or profiled across the five boroughs.
The Standard High Line, a popular hotel located in the West Village, also offered free rooms to people living in the neighborhood where the bomb was set off.
Anyone providing proof of address was offered a a free dinner, worth up to $150.
“We are saddened by last night’s explosion. If you live on 23rd between 6th and 7th,” the company said in a statement on Sunday, Bbring proof of address and join us this evening at The Standard, High Line, for a room and dinner with us.”
One unnamed employee told amNewYork that the company tries to be as neighborly as possible. “People need help,” they said.
