Food City has named district-level winners of the Claude P. Varney Volunteer Recognition Program. We have four East Tennessee districts of the 12 total.

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.

Each district winner is recognized with an award and a $250 contribution to their choice charity. These 12 will advance toward an overall winner.

It’s awesome to see the volunteer work contributed by Food City associates. We are proud of everyone. Meet our districts’ outstanding volunteers.

Michael Berry, a cashier at the Morrell Road Food City in West Knoxville, represents District 7. The family and friends created the Johnia Berry Toy Drive in 2007, following the murder of Mike’s daughter, Johnia Berry, in 2004. The group gifts toys for children whose families have been affected by crime: Food City_Michael Berry

Mark Young, produce manager of Crossville Food City No. 656, represents District 8. He volunteers at Fredonia Baptist Church where he and his brother run the sound boards during services and make sure the grounds are safe for all attendees: Food City_Mark Young

Sarah Fennell is customer service coordinator at Food City No. 619 in Blaine. She represents District 6. Sarah volunteers with three organizations – the Grainger County Farm Bureau, the Grainger County Chamber of Commerce (board member) and the East Tennessee Regional Leadership Board of Directors: Food City_Sarah Fennell

Phillip Drinnon, District 5, is a meat cutter at Food City No. 602 in Morristown. He is a 10-year volunteer with Shriners and also works with Scottish Rite: Food City_Phillip Drinnon

Free masks: Food City is offering free N95 face masks to its customers and associates, which will be available at the front of the store, while supplies last. Food City also worked with HHS and local health departments to provide 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 at FoodCity.com or visit any Food City store to complete an application.

Betsi James is special events manager for Food City’s Knoxville and Chattanooga divisions.