OPS bus drivers part of ‘secret shoes’ surprise for tornado victims | News

0

[ad_1]

When Owensboro Public School bus drivers Evie Davis and Trayvon Carbon received a text from their supervisor over the weekend asking for volunteers to help victims of recent tornadoes in western Kentucky, they jumped at the chance even before knowing the job.

Davis and Carbon were joined by three other district bus drivers. They weren’t told much about the task, only that it involved transporting tornado victims from Kenlake to resort parks in Lake Barkley State on Sunday.

Their “secret mission” turned out to be a trip for tornado victims to receive free shoes from Samaritan’s Feet, in partnership with the University of Kentucky men’s basketball team and coach John Calipari.

Members of the UK basketball team Calipari and Governor Andy Beshear greeted tornado victims and handed them the shoes, along with snacks and wishes.

“We’ve even seen Coach Cal slip people $ 100 bills,†Davis said. “I saw the governor give the jacket from his back to a woman in need. It was really great to see them being so generous to these people who have lost so much.

Davis transported approximately 15 people to and from the event on his bus. During the ride, she heard their stories and experiences of the December 10 tornadoes that claimed the lives of nearly 80 people in western Kentucky.

“It was impactful, and even though they’ve all been through so much, they all seemed to be in a good mood,†she said.

Carbon also heard stories from those he carried. These stories will stay with him forever, he said.

Louisiana businessman asks U.S. Supreme Court to block OSHA vaccination mandate

“They explained their situation and what it was like to go through this storm,†he said. “A lot of them said it was like a passing train, then dead silence, then all they could hear was people screaming.”

He said that kind of devastation is hard to understand, but he’s glad people across the state have come together to lend their support. Even if that means a hug and encouragement from people who are much loved, like Calipari and the British basketball players.

“It meant a lot to people,†he said. “A lot of people were shocked (Calipari and the players) were there, and they were happy to have the support. It was a lot of comfort, and it was just good to see.

Davis and Carbon were both grateful for doing something to help those who fell victim to the storm.

Davis said she wanted to volunteer or do something, but wasn’t sure what she could do. Getting the chance to drive the bus and provide a listening ear was powerful.

Carbon agreed and said that was the reason he wanted to volunteer for the event.

“I knew they needed help, and it’s a blessing to be able to help those in need receive blessings from others,†he said.

[ad_2]

Share.

Comments are closed.