When Tamaqua area schools were locked down because of a threat last week, Andrea Valentine started thinking about ways to thank police officers who keep schools and the community safe.

“My daughter, Emma, is in first grade, so she was locked down,” said Valentine, of Mary D. “I wanted to do something to teach my two daughters (including Aubree, 3) to give back to the community.”

She decided to use proceeds from special decals she creates through her crafting business, The Rustic Valentine, to make Saturday a special day for Tamaqua police. Emblazoned with the words, “Peace, Love, Raiders,” she’s selling them for $4 each or two for $6.

“I thought whatever money I make from it, I am going to turn around and either buy coffee and doughnuts, coffee and cupcakes, lunch - whatever I could - for the police department,” who determined the Oct. 19 threat was not credible, she said.

She’s not sure how much she will raise, but since announcing her thank you effort, she’s collected almost $150. Some folks are baking cupcakes and cookies, and others have promised to drop off refreshments and snacks.

Valentine is overwhelmed by the support.

“I didn’t expect much from this. This is way greater than I ever imagined,” she said.

Valentine and others will arrive at the police station at noon to deliver food for the afternoon and evening shifts.

“I have also asked other parents to bring their children along,” she said. “They’re welcome to bring a colored photo for the officers - anything that they’d like to draw.”

Whatever leftover proceeds she has, she will put toward a gift card.

“This way, another shift can also have lunch,” Valentine said.

Through her hobby business, she makes custom signs, decals, T-shirts and tie-dyes. Anyone who’d like to donate can reach her through her Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/therusticvalentine or therusticvalentine@yahoo.com.