Each year, Food City recognizes outstanding volunteerism among their dedicated team of associates through the Claude P. Varney Volunteer Recognition Program.  

“As a company, we’re committed to giving back to the communities we serve, while providing a work environment that enables our associates to grow both personally and professionally as successful members of our team,” said Steven C. Smith, Food City president and chief executive officer. “Many of our associates volunteer their time and talents in service of charitable organizations throughout the region and we’re proud to recognize their efforts.” 

The program is named in memory of Food City’s beloved former president and board vice-chairman of 47 years, Claude P. Varney, who was well-known for his tremendous compassion and humanitarian services. An independent panel of judges review associate nominations. Winners are selected based upon outstanding achievements in the areas of health, education, environment, cultural arts, recreational, heritage/history and public service. One winner is selected from each Food City store. The field is then narrowed to 14 district winners, followed by two divisional winners, and the overall recipient of the Claude P. Varney Humanitarian Award. 

Michelle Ferguson-Bohling and Heather Walkley were named this year’s divisional winners.

Bohling served as a front-end manager for the Food City in Louisa, KY. She has volunteered for 15 years with area domestic violence shelters. As a domestic violence survivor, Bohling is committed to sharing her story to empower others through love and faith. Bohling is a 7-year volunteer with The Salvation Army. Having benefitted from their services as a child, she assists with food and clothing drives and helps complete applications for employment and financial assistance. Bohling has also volunteered as an interpreter at various churches, sharing her story of deliverance from alcohol and assisting with clothing drives and other needs.

"I was raised with the understanding that faith is the currency of the Kingdom, and we truly cannot outgive God. While I strive to walk in humility and modesty, receiving this is a great honor,” says Bohling. “To me, volunteering isn't optional—it's the essence of agape love. I’ve always believed that being a shepherd to the flock means being there to help anyone and everyone in need."

Walkley serves as assistant deli manager for the Food City in Loudon, TN. Her co-workers view her as someone who consistently puts others first and works hard to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Walkley is a volunteer with Cold Hands Warm Hearts. Having previously been homeless, she understands the needs firsthand and helps prepare food and serve the homeless community. Committed to mentoring youth, Walkley volunteers with SVBC Youth Ministries, where she helps with youth meetings, assisted living bingo nights, weekend conferences and other community-based programs. Walkley also participates in the Operation Christmas Child Shoebox program. Having received assistance for her family in the past, she believes in returning the blessing to other children and purchases toys, clothing, and other personal items to fill shoeboxes for the program.

“I am truly honored and humbled at the blessings this will allow Cold Hands Warm Hearts to use for the homeless members of our community,” says Walkley. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart for this award and for the recognition of my volunteer work. May God continue to use my hands for His work.”

Both division winners will be recognized for their outstanding achievements and Food City is making a $750 contribution on their behalf to the charity of their choice. 

“We’re extremely proud of the difference our associates make in their community by devoting their time and talents in the service of others,” said Smith.

Headquartered in Abingdon, Virginia, K-VA-T Food Stores (Food City’s parent company) operates 164 retail outlets throughout southeast Kentucky, southwest Virginia, east Tennessee, north Georgia, and Alabama.