Food City officials are in Maryville this morning (5/28) to present a significant check to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. We’re at Food City No. 647, 2135 E. Broadway. Come on out if you see this before 9 a.m.

Each year, Food City hosts a company-wide “sneaker” fundraising campaign to benefit JDRF. This year’s promotion ran from April 7 to May 4. Food City shoppers were invited to contribute at the register, with 100% of the funds collected to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

“Diabetes is a serious issue facing many of our associates, our loyal customers and their family members and we are proud to be able to partner with JDRF to help find a cure for juvenile diabetes,” says Steven C. Smith, Food City president and chief executive officer. “Thanks to the generosity of our loyal customers and associates, Food City continues to be JDRF’s largest supporter in the East Tennessee market, having raised nearly $2.9 million over the past decade.”

This year’s check was for $546,023.23. Thanks, from the bottom of my heart to each person who contributed.

United We Grill: Food City stores have packaged everything you need for that Memorial Day cookout – meat, chips, veggies, buns and more – for $13.99. This is good for two days only and the details (plus other specials) are here: Food City_5.28 Knox ROP

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