When you’ve been part of something for over a decade, it becomes more than a job—it becomes a calling. Since May 2009, Robert Bowser has been a steady and compassionate presence at God’s Pantry Food Bank, helping ensure that food reaches families across Kentucky with care and consistency.
Rob began driving tractor-trailers in 2014, after earning his Class B license in 2012. He saw truck driving as a way to grow within the organization and embraced the challenge.
“It was challenging, and I like a good challenge,” he says.
His truck of choice?
“Volvo all the way. The ride quality and interior setup—it’s like comparing a Ford Pinto to a Lexus.”
While the roads may be familiar, the people make each day unique.
“The people that I meet,” Rob says, are the best part of being a GPFB driver.
Rob’s connection to our mission runs deep.
“Gaining knowledge about what we do, why we do it, and why it's so important—and sharing what I've learned throughout the years with other people who need to gain more knowledge.”
He shared a story that made someone stop and think about what it really means to support a community.
Rob’s routes follow a two-week cycle, with some days stretching up to 10 hours, depending on the destination.
“My longest route is about a seven-hour travel. That’s there and back.”
One delivery stands out in his memory.
“I did Food for Underserved Counties. People were already lined up. A little girl looked at her mom and said, ‘Mommy, do we get some of that?’ That moment cut me down to size. It reminded me why this work matters.”
Challenges like traffic and unpredictable stops are part of the job, but the reward is in the reactions.
“They’re tickled. A lot of them say when the truck shows up, it feels like Christmas. They don’t know what they’re going to get, especially the produce.”
Robert wants people to understand the essential role truck drivers play.
“You’ve probably heard the term, ‘If you got it, a truck brought it.’ When trucking stops, the country stops. That’s just the way it is.”
This Truck Driver Appreciation Month, we celebrate Rob and all the drivers who bring food, dignity, and hope to our neighbors across Kentucky.
Thank you, Rob, for showing us that compassion and commitment are what truly keep our mission moving forward.
