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The Kentucky State University Thorobred football players kicked off its Pay It Forward campaign Friday morning at the Coalition of Committed Christians’ Soup Kitchen.

Even off the field, the players continued to work as a team as they helped to unload items that will benefit residents who use the facility.

KSU coach Matthew Amburgey said that service projects are important because they give the players a sense of responsibility and connects them with the community.

“This is not just a place they go to school. This is a community that they’re going to be in for the next four years,” he said.

The team has more projects that will take place for the rest of the year.

“It’s all about community outreach. If we lend a helping hand first, they’ll be more likely to come out and show us a little support,” Amburgey said.