Annual Thanksgiving Project designated ‘In Memory of Daius Young’
Published 10:57 am Monday, November 25, 2019
Contributed Photo A few of the 135 families that benefited from this year’s Thanksgiving Distribution.
Contributed Photo Seated at the left, helping Board member Tena Trice, is Daius’ mom Jennifer Young.
Contributed Photo Big brother Anaiah Young, helping with this year’s project, in memory of his brother.
Contributed Photo Daius is pictured helping with previous Thanksgiving Project.
On Tuesday, Nov. 19, Good Samaritan Thrift Store in Roan Mountain conducted its annual Thanksgiving Project, distributing to about 13 families, living in the Newland, Elk Park, Roan Mountain and Hampton areas.
However, this was a very special distribution, designated “In Memory of our Youngest Volunteer — Daius Young.” As you might recall, Daius is the young boy that drowned in a pond near his home earlier this year. He was the son of Ed and Jen Young, Roan Mountain. Being homeschooled, Daius was able to help out at the thrift store occasionally, and, especially during distributions. In fact, Daius is shown in the first picture, picking up a Second Harvest Thanksgiving box from a previous distribution.
Kay Hogan, administrator for Good Samaritan Thrift Store, reminisced about how he ministered to others in his own sweet way. “When Daius was at the store, his smile brightened everyone’s day,” she remarked, and explained, “He loved to help the customers by carrying items to their vehicle and they loved having a little conversation with him during the process.” It’s obvious that during his eight short years of life, Daius left a lasting impression that will never be forgotten. Jen and her other son, Anaiah, were a big help with the Thanksgiving distribution and can be seen in the pics as well. Other volunteers: Board member Tena Trice, Kay’s brother, Jerry Hicks and wife Patty, Don Smith, Chasidie Pierce, Tammy Sluder and June Henson.
The Good Samaritan Thrift Store is a small ministry and this project could not have been successful without the support of others. Kay would like to give honor to Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee, Rev. Dale Stamey, Chris and Diane Bohan, Jeff and Melanie Hicks, Mike and Tena Trice, Caleb and Dana Hogan, Corky and Frieda Hicks, Steve and Martha Linkous, Tammy Sluder and Patty Hicks. It’s a blessing to see this joint effort of the communities and people working together to assist those that we may or may not even know with a heart of compassion. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
