Those who stopped by Kismet Coffee on March 21 enjoyed a free cup of hot, iced or cold brew coffee at no cost. The coffee shop, located on Main Street in Bay Shore, participated in its second year of Free Coffee Day. This year was in coordination with Canine Companions, a non-profit organization that helps provide service dogs to individuals with disabilities at no cost.

Last year’s Free Coffee Day was held on March 8, just over three months of having been open. It was sponsored by Minor Figures, a coffee company that specializes in coffee products and oat milk. Over 400 cups of coffee were given out to anyone who ordered coffee with oat milk.

After having an unexpected influx of people stopping by last year, owner of Kismet Coffee, Jackson Davis, was extra prepared this year with both staff and coffee.

Not only did people get to enjoy a free coffee, but they also got to meet and greet some of the puppies that are in training to become service dogs. From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., labrador retrievers were giving a furry welcome to all. If you stopped by early in the afternoon, you got to meet Tarragon, the youngest puppy brought out all day, at just 10 weeks old.

For Jackson Davis, this year’s collaboration was a bit more personal. Davis’ late brother, Nick Davis, was one of the youngest recipients to receive a service dog from a Canine Companions at just five years old. Nick Davis’ service dog, Feathers II was one of the early graduates of the Long Island location.

“For them [Nick and Feathers II] specifically, it was a very emotional, almost like, spiritual bond that they had,” Jackson Davis said. “I think he [Nick] felt just more confident when she was around, you know, it was like they were best friends.”

There were also giveaways, raffles and limited-edition Kismet Coffee and Canine Companions coffee bags to help fundraise and support the non-profit. Anyone who made a donation toward Canine Companions was entered into the raffle.

All of the proceeds went to the organization who is also celebrating its 50th year providing service dogs and helping individuals in need. In total, over $3,000 were raised for Canine Companions.

“Canine Companions is the nation’s first and largest service dog organization, serving adults, children and veterans with disabilities, all free of charge,” Canine Companions Volunteer Coordinator Sue Parrinello said. “It costs well in-excess of $50,000 to raise and train each dog, which we are able to give away at no cost thanks to the generosity of donors and supporters like Jackson Davis and Kismet Coffee…We’re very pleased that Jackson and his family continue to support Canine Companions with fabulous events like Coffee & Canines.”

Anyone interested in learning more about Canine Companions, such as how to volunteer or become a puppy raiser can head to www.canine.org.