Southeastern Grocers, the parent company of Winn-Dixie stores, is following Tyler Perry's actions and paying it forward to help those on the front lines of COVID-19.
During the company's health care professionals and first responders shopping hour on Monday, April 13, shoppers at BI-LO, Fresco y Más, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie stores in seven states in the Southeast were surprised with a $0 grocery total at the register.
The company says it was a way to thank those who have been working tirelessly during the pandemic to keep communities safe.
"We were inspired to pay it forward and hope to inspire others so we can continue to lift spirits during this difficult time," said Anthony Hucker, President and CEO of Southeastern Grocers. "As a community, we are stronger together and will win together with kindness."
Last week, actor and director Tyler Perry surprised elderly and high-risk customers at 29 Winn-Dixie stores in Louisiana by paying for their grocery bills during a special shopping hour.
Southeastern Grocers said that Perry partnered with the company to purchase the groceries and encouraged them to "pay it forward and help spread kindness during these difficult times."
The company has stores in Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Mississippi, North Carolina and South Carolina.
