It probably didn’t hurt that temperatures were in the triple digit range … but it’s likely the crowd would have come out no matter what the weather.
Millie’s Lemonade Stand in Valley Home, set up in the community park, was drawing customers in a steady stream Friday afternoon, Aug. 16 as the eight-year-old raised money for Honor Bands. The bands are the black bands that are placed on the badges of law enforcement officers to honor a fallen fellow officer.
Millie Cox and her classmate and friend Ashlan McCurley, 9, were busy scooping up ice, filling lemonade glasses, handing out cookies and taking in donations for the cause.
The fundraiser was an idea the youngster had to help bring awareness to the dangers law officers face and the community jumped on board, as did law enforcement. CHP and Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department both shared the fundraiser on social media, the fire department arrived, community residents turned out and several television and newspaper crews were on site as well.
“We’re just taking donations,” Millie said, with no set price for lemonade or cookies.
Whether it was a couple of dollars or a $20 bill donated for a glass of lemonade, all will help support the honor band program.
The long line was testament to the success of the venture.
“I don’t think any of us” expected the effort to get so big, noted Millie’s aunt, Tena Heaton.
Look for the full story and additional pictures about Millie’s Lemonade Stand in the Aug. 21 issue of The Leader.