Cecilia Johansen was recognized for her volunteer spirit as store-level winner of the Claude P. Varney Volunteer Recognition Program. She works in inventory receiving at the Halls Food City.
For the past six years, Johansen has volunteered with a local, independent charity, Christ Christmas. “We sing carols, hand out stockings and help families in need with food, toys, presents, etc.,” she said.
Halls manager Travis Woody said Johansen helps the less fortunate in many ways. By working in receiving, she can identify damaged items to donate to local food banks, and she supports local animal rescue projects.
Johansen lives in Halls, but has only worked at the Halls Food City since 2020. She previously worked in receiving at other locations. The Halls Food City is located at 7702 Maynardville Pike.
Each year Food City recognizes outstanding volunteerism among its associates through the Varney award. Food City President and CEO Steven Smith created the program after attending a June 2002 White House meeting. He named it for Mr. Varney, a former president and board vice chair of Food City.
“Many of our associates volunteer their time and talents to numerous service organizations throughout the areas in which we operate, and we feel it’s needful to recognize the valuable services and support they provide,” said Smith.
Committees review associates’ volunteer activities and select store winners who compete within their district. Twelve district winners are recognized with an award and a $250 contribution to their choice charity. Two divisional winners are then chosen and honored with a plaque and a $750 charity contribution. And finally, one overall winner is selected to receive the Claude P. Varney Humanitarian Award and be publicly recognized for their outstanding achievements in addition to a $1,250 charity contribution made on their behalf.
It’s awesome to see the volunteer work contributed by Food City associates. We are proud of every one.
Free masks: Food City is offering free N95 face masks to their customers and associates. The program is made available through a partnership with Topco Associates LLC cooperative and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Food City will be receiving several shipments of these high-quality face coverings, which will be available at the front of the store, while supplies last.
In mid-January, the federal government announced plans to distribute 400 million N95 face coverings through retailers around the country. The initiative is intended to slow the spread of Covid-19. Food City’s partnership with Topco enabled them to meet the government requirements necessary to acquire the free masks. The supermarket retailer has also worked with HHS and local health departments to provide other vital services during the pandemic, including Covid testing and vaccinations.
Jobs, jobs, jobs: Food City continues to hire for full- or part-time jobs, entry-level or skilled positions. Interested candidates can apply online here or visit any Food City store to complete an application.
Betsi James is special events manager for Food City’s Knoxville and Chattanooga divisions.