Texas Food Pantry Celebrates Volunteers Who Serve Quietly

Linda Koenig wasn't looking for recognition when she walked into Rockport-Fulton Good Samaritans eight years ago. She was looking for purpose, and she found it stocking shelves, interviewing families, and greeting neighbors who needed help.

April is Volunteer Appreciation Month, and the Texas food pantry is celebrating people like Koenig who show up quietly, year after year, asking for nothing in return. The nonprofit serves Aransas County residents facing difficult seasons, providing food and basic assistance to families who need it most.

"We cannot do this work alone," said Executive Director Stefany Simmons. "This work depends on people in our community choosing to show up and serve."

Terry Jones-Parrish started three years ago in the food pantry and now provides administrative support. Simmons calls her the "Amazing Administrative Angel." Together, Koenig and Jones-Parrish have helped build systems, train new volunteers, and bring structure to the organization's daily operations.

The pantry opens its doors Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors sign in and meet briefly with an interviewer to determine what help they need. Every interaction is designed to offer dignity, not judgment.

Sunny's Take

What makes this story special isn't just the meals distributed or families served. It's the small moments that create lasting connections: a kind word, a bag of groceries handed with care, a listening ear when someone needs it most. Volunteers often arrive wanting to help others but discover the experience changes them too.

On April 25, the community will gather for Hooked On Health at the Rockport Center for the Arts. The event benefits Good Samaritans and The Well Rockport, an organization supporting women and children affected by domestic violence. The free wellness festival includes a 5K fun run, vendors, speakers, and activities for all ages.

"A community of wellness is neighbors caring for neighbors," said Lauren Ramzinsky, co-founder of Hooked On Health. "We're excited to showcase opportunities to get involved and volunteer."

Good Samaritans operates as an agency of the Coastal Bend Food Bank. The organization welcomes new volunteers in the front office, food distribution, donation organization, or special events. Community members can also donate food, hygiene items, or financial support.

At its core, this is people serving people, one meal and one moment of compassion at a time.