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,” says Steven C. Smith, Food City president and chief executive officer.  “Many of our associates volunteer their time and talents in service of civic organizations throughout the region and we’re proud to formally 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 thirteen district winners, followed by two divisional winners, and the overall recipient of the Claude P. Varney Humanitarian Award.  

Jim Watson of Abingdon, VA was selected as this year’s Claude P. Varney Humanitarian Award recipient. Watson works as a truck driver for the Food City Distribution Center in Abingdon, VA, where he has served for thirty years. He has been an active volunteer with St. Jude Children’s Hospital since his son Cade was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2010 at the age of 10. Watson and his family lived in Memphis for 9 months while Cade received treatment. The family never received a bill for treatment, housing, travel, or food. Having felt helpless and hopeless during this tragic time in their lives, Watson strives to give back and support the life saving efforts of St. Jude in their fight to end childhood cancer. 

Watson rallies his family and friends to assist with fundraising efforts throughout the year to benefit St. Jude. He works to raise awareness about childhood cancer and the great work St. Jude is doing to benefit cancer patients and their families. He has hosted numerous fundraising events over the years, ranging from bingo and bluegrass shows to golf tournaments, banquets, and live auctions. Thanks to Watson’s outstanding efforts and the tremendous support of his family, friends, and community, he has raised more than $760,000 to benefit St. Jude Children’s Hospital over the past twelve years.

“I am very grateful for winning this award, but to me this is about the kids of St. Jude and this award is for them,” said Watson about being recognized for his outstanding achievements. Food City is making a $1,250 contribution on Watson’s behalf to the charity of his 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,” says Smith.

Food City team (pictured left to right):

Greg Sparks, Senior Vice President & COO

Eric Hearl, Transportation Manager

Cade Watson, Merchandising Reclaim Supervisor

Jim Watson, Truck Driver

Steve Smith, President/CEO

Sherrell Lyon, Vice President of Human Resources

Buddy Honaker, Director of Distribution

Headquartered in Abingdon, Virginia, K-VA-T Food Stores (Food City’s parent company) operates 150 retail outlets throughout southeast Kentucky, southwest Virginia, east Tennessee, north Georgia, and Alabama.