Pictured left to right: District Manager Tim Thomas, Trevor Roberts (Tim’s son), Regional Director Keith Everett, Tammy Roberts (Tim’s wife), Assistant Produce Manager Tim Roberts and Store Manager Kraig Balon.
The holidays are supposed to be a time full of joy, good cheer and gatherings with family and friends. But for Assistant Produce Manager Tim Roberts, #1146, Athens, Georgia, and his family, this past holiday season was alarming and tragic.
It was Dec. 23, when Tim’s wife called him at work crying.
“Someone broke into our house and had stolen our TV and Christmas presents, most of which were for my special needs son,” explained Tim.
As one could imagine, especially given the time of year, Tim was disheartened. However, in true Publix fashion, the store associates jumped into action with the heart of One Publix with One Purpose. Within a 24-hour period, they collected over $600 in cash and $90 in gift cards to provide Tim and his family some good cheer.
“Tim is a very humble person and hard worker. He would do anything that anyone asked of him,” said Assistant Store Manager Tina Lofsten. “When we found out what happened, we decided to all chip in to help Tim and his family have a good Christmas.”
When he returned to work on Christmas Eve to open the store, the other managers presented him with the gifts on behalf of all the store associates.
“It completely caught me off guard. I went around the store and personally thanked everyone. I truly appreciated it and am still so grateful,” Tim said.
The entire store was awarded a gold coin for their selflessness in helping a fellow associate in a time of need. Associates were surprised and honored to receive the recognition.
“There was no hesitation from anyone to do what we could to help. Publix is a family, and that’s what families do,” Tina said.
These are the kinds of associates Mr. George envisioned working in his store, ones with giving hearts. He would be incredibly proud to see how associates perpetuate the Publix culture in caring for each other.
“In my seven years with the company, next to being promoted, this was my proudest moment working for Publix,” explained Tim. “This is a very caring store. It feels like home.”
A gold coin is given to associates who embrace the Publix culture and provide premier service the way Mr. George himself would have. Receiving a gold coin means you’ve made a real difference in the lives of others by going above and beyond. Associates can become eligible for a gold coin by receiving praise through the customer care department, which reviews each case based on established criteria and guidelines.
Take a moment to read about other gold coin winners in Publix News.
