Deptford council presented awards for March business and citizen of the month at its recent meeting.
A relatively small audience at the April 3 session saw Holy Grounds Coffee Ltd. get the business award and Good Intent Elementary School teacher Amy Rivello receive the citizen award.
Holy Grounds is a coffee shop that is part of St. John of God community services, a nonprofit that works to improve the lives of those with disabilities. It began in May of 2021, according to the coffee shop’s website, as a way to provide employment opportunities to those with disabilities and special needs.
“You’re really affording opportunities for men and women with disabilities and other challenges to have meaningful employment,” said Brother Thomas Osorio, who was there on behalf of Holy Grounds.
“When you buy our coffee, it’s not just a handout, it’s not just supporting a good cause,” he added, “but you’re supporting men and women who ultimately would not have a job as meaningful.”
Osorio and two others from Holy Grounds Coffee received award certificates and posed with council for pictures.
Rivello got her certificate and a proclamation as her family looked on. The first-grade teacher was cited for saving the life of a choking student during her class’s snack time.
“On March 10, 2023, first grade teacher at Good Intent Elementary Amy Rivello demonstrated bravery and heroism when she took action,” said Mayor Paul Medany, reading the proclamation, “(She used) her training and quick response, reacted selflessly and without hesitation, successfully performed the lifesaving Heimlich maneuver technique and dislodged the snack from his throat.”
Rivello acknowledged her training in the technique while she worked at a daycare in her college days.
“I was a little shaken up afterwards,” she admitted.
Rivello also posed for a picture with the council, her family and school board President Joe McKenna. Council then praised the award winners.
“I just want to give my appreciation for our citizen of the month and business of the month,” said Councilwoman MacKenzie Belling. “(For) our citizen of the month, you couldn’t possibly do justice for how appreciative we are for someone taking lifesaving action in an emergency like that.
“(For) our business of the month, I personally am a Holy Grounds (Coffee) fan,” she added. “I found out about them when they were a vendor at one of our town events once, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
“It’s cool to have a business in town that’s so mission oriented in providing an important service and ensuring that adults of all backgrounds have the opportunity to have a job.”
