Moorefield Food Lion Recognized as Employer Award Winner for Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, and Workforce Excellence
12/01/25The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) is proud to honor Moorefield Food Lion as an Employer Award recipient for their long-standing dedication to diversity, inclusivity, and employee success.Known for nourishing communities in need and creating workplaces where associates can thrive, Food Lion values the skills, talents, and contributions of all employees as critical to their continued success as an omnichannel grocery retailer.
Moorefield Food Lion has partnered with Rise Now, LLC to provide on-site assessments, training, and job coaching, ensuring that DRS consumers receive meaningful support and opportunities. Beyond this partnership, the store has always prioritized hiring with diversity in mind—welcoming individuals with disabilities, people of all ages, women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and workers from various cultural backgrounds. Their inclusive hiring practices are backed by strong training, natural workplace support, and opportunities for advancement, which have allowed many employees to remain with the company for more than a decade.
Within the past year, Food Lion has strengthened its commitment to inclusivity by:
- Training management on disability inclusion
- Establishing a clear process for employees to request reasonable accommodations
- Ensuring equal opportunity in hiring and promotions
- Working to eliminate stigma and foster a positive, welcoming culture
As part of their everyday workplace culture, accommodations are offered on a case-by-case basis, training is flexible and self-paced, and natural support steps in when needed—ensuring that each employee has the opportunity to succeed. The impact of these practices is clear: Food Lion has built an environment where employees are treated well, turnover is low, and retention is strong. As staff describe it, “An inclusive environment provides opportunity to anyone. It’s a place for hard workers. Several employees have been with the business for 10+ years. They do not have a problem finding employees, because they are treated well.”
From the top down, Food Lion has demonstrated an open and accepting culture that welcomes all applicants and supports every associate’s journey. Their inclusive practices not only benefit employees but also strengthen the communities they serve.Congratulations to Moorefield Food Lion on being named a 2025 Employer Award winner.
Pictured L-R: Laurie Saunders, WVDRS Employment Specialist, Daniel Simmons, WVDRS Branch Office Manager, Chris Esteppe, Food Lion Store Manager, Walter Barnes, Food Lion Assistant Store Manager