Jacksonville, Florida-based Southeastern Grocers Inc., parent company and home of BI-LO, Fresco y Más, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie grocery stores, together with the SEG Gives Foundation, announces the launch of the Romay Davis Belonging, Inclusion and Diversity Grant Program. This program will provide nonprofits supporting minority communities with opportunities to receive funding to serve diverse sectors.
As the country faces challenging times with a global pandemic and heightened racial distress, SEG remains committed to fostering a culture of belonging and inclusion for people of all backgrounds. 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.
“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,” said Elizabeth Thompson, EVP and chief people officer for SEG. “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 is accepting through Sept. 8. Organizations throughout SEG’s 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.
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.
She served in World War II, graduated from New York University 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 age of 80, Davis rejoined the workforce as a Winn-Dixie associate. She 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.
The SEG Gives Foundation has a longstanding history of supporting programs that help bridge the gap of racial disparities impacting people of color in larger numbers. SEG is committed to continuing its partnerships with organizations such as the American Red Cross, Feeding America and Folds of Honor to influence diverse sectors of the Southeast.
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 segrocers.com/careers/whychooseus. To submit an application online, please visit seggives.com/grantapp.
