Most days Hayward’s Deli & Market bustles early with customers stopping in for an on-the-run bagel and spot of coffee or bit of morning news. And then there’s the big lunch sandwiches for the hungry noon crowd, where the Hayward motto “meats to please you” hits home.

This Thursday, May 10, Hayward’s Deli & Market will be celebrating its 9th anniversary serving up Sloatsburg. And with that in mind, Ken Hayward, who always donates something somewhere in Sloatsburg, has decided to thank his customers by offering something free. Yes, free coffee, tea or hot chocolate — on the Haywards.

A popular lunch spot in the heart Sloatsburg along Rt. 17, Hayward’s generously donates to the United Methodist Church Food Pantry, as well as to Sloatsburg Elementary School on its annual Olympic Day. Hayward’s recently lost longtime store fixture Marie Borrillo, who passed away suddenly at the beginning of April. The Haywards are collecting money for the Diabetes Foundation in Borrillo’s name. Borrillo had worked at Hayward’s even before the deli was Hayward’s — nearly 15 years in all — and was known for her generous acts of kindness to friends and strangers.

Hayward’s Deli has been a mainstay for residents and road warriors alike, open rain or shine, in winter storms and without power sometimes, serving up supplies and lunch sandwiches at the deli counter or snacks and provisions for weekend recreational adventurers. So, if you happen to stop by Hayward’s Thursday, pick up a cup of joe and tip the staff.