Meet Sam Thomas, a dedicated and passionate volunteer who has been a vital part of God’s Pantry Food Bank for the past three years. At just 19 years old, Sam is already making a significant impact on the lives of those experiencing food insecurity in Central and Eastern Kentucky.
Sam was born and raised in Lexington, Kentucky, where he currently lives with his supportive parents. A full-time student at the University of Kentucky, Sam is majoring in Public Policy, Economics, and Finance. In addition to his studies, he works part-time at Home Depot’s Tool Rental Center as a small engine mechanic. Despite his busy schedule, Sam prioritizes volunteering with God’s Pantry Food Bank, striving to lend a helping hand on a weekly basis.
When asked why he supports God’s Pantry Food Bank, Sam reflects on his father’s experiences with food insecurity growing up in Eastern Kentucky. “I myself have been blessed to never experience food insecurity, but my father had a fair bit of it growing up, and that always struck a chord with me,” Sam shares. This personal connection fuels his commitment to the mission of the Food Bank.
For Sam, volunteering is not just a civic duty but a moral obligation. He finds fulfillment in the tangible progress made during each shift. “The progress we make each time in preparing food to be sent and seeing those fully stacked pallets at the end of our shift makes it all worth it,” he says.
Sam’s sense of gratitude for his family and community further motivates his volunteer work. He speaks fondly of his parents and brother, who have been instrumental in shaping the person he is today. His love for the Lexington community shines through in his admiration for how “friendly, helpful, and good-natured” people are to one another.
Looking ahead, Sam is hopeful for a future where every Kentuckian has access to a nourished life. He believes that with time, dedication, and collective effort, this noble pursuit is within reach. “Anything can be accomplished if we work together as a collective; it just takes time and dedication,” Sam asserts.
Sam Thomas embodies the spirit of service and the belief that we all have a role to play in supporting one another. We are grateful for his dedication and the positive impact he continues to make at God’s Pantry Food Bank.
