Southeastern Grocers Sets Up Minority Nonprofit Grand Program Honoring Centenarian Winn-Dixie Associate
Southeastern Grocers, parent company and home of BI-LO, Fresco y Más, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie grocery stores, together with the SEG Gives Foundation, announced today the launch of the Romay Davis Belonging, Inclusion and Diversity Grant Program. This vital grant program will provide nonprofits supporting minority communities with opportunities to receive funding to serve diverse sectors.
To support the fight for racial equality and social justice, SEG Gives Foundation is offering nonprofits in communities throughout its seven-state footprint the opportunity to apply for grant funds to help address racial disparities in health care and food insecurity.
Elizabeth Thompson, evp and Chief People Officer for Southeastern Grocers, said, “At Southeastern Grocers, we take pride in cultivating an environment of belonging, inclusion and diversity. As a people first company, we are committed to creating a thriving culture with stores that reflect the local communities we serve. Embracing and celebrating our differences makes us stronger, and we are honored to stand with our associates, customers and neighbors to support nonprofits that positively impact our communities. We are stronger together.”
The Romay Davis Belonging, Inclusion and Diversity Grant Program will begin accepting applications on July 8 and remain open through Sept. 8. Organizations throughout Southeastern Grocers’ footprint can apply for grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000. The SEG Inclusion and Diversity Committee will review and evaluate all applications. Grant awards will be announced in December 2020.
The namesake for the Romay Davis Belonging, Inclusion and Diversity Grant Program is 20-year Winn-Dixie associate, Romay Davis. Last year, SEG and the Montgomery, Alabama Winn-Dixie store celebrated Davis for her 100th birthday. During a time when women and people of color faced restricted rights, Davis consistently broke barriers and shattered glass ceilings by challenging society’s limited beliefs. Davis served in World War II (WWII), graduated from New York University (NYU) and thrived in a 30-year fashion career. After retirement, she continued to blaze trails by earning a Master’s degree and a Black Belt in Taekwondo. At the young age of 80, Davis rejoined the workforce as a Winn-Dixie associate. Davis has achieved many milestones throughout her accomplished life, and it is SEG’s hope that this grant, named in her honor, provides inspiration and opportunity for others to do the same.
For additional information about the Romay Davis Belonging, Inclusion and Diversity Grant Program, including details on required documentation, organizational requirements, the Southeastern Grocers’ Inclusion and Diversity Statement and more, visit www.segrocers.com/careers/whychooseus. To submit an application online, please visit www.seggives.com/grantapp.