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Walmart and The Salvation Army Join Forces This Holiday Season

As the holiday season approaches, Walmart and The Salvation Army are once again coming together to address the rising needs of families across the nation. This partnership aims to provide essential support, particularly as many communities face increased economic pressures.

Walmart is amplifying its commitment to combat food insecurity and bring hope to those facing hardship. From now until December 24, the retail giant is launching two special giving initiatives that will match customer donations, effectively doubling the impact of every dollar contributed.

Matching Initiatives

1. Holiday Meal Donation: Walmart will match donations made through this initiative up to $500,000. Customers can add contributions of $5, $15, or $25 when shopping on Walmart.com, directly supporting families in need.

2. Round-Up Donations: Between December 2 and December 24, Walmart will match all online and app Round-Up donations, with a total matching fund of $1 million. This allows shoppers to round their totals up to the nearest dollar, with the excess amount supporting The Salvation Army’s critical programs.

The initiatives are not only designed to meet the immediate needs of families but also to foster a spirit of giving during what can be a challenging time for many. According to Commissioner Merle Heatwole, the National Commander of The Salvation Army, “Across the country, more families are turning to The Salvation Army for help putting food on the table and keeping a roof over their heads.” This collaboration will help ensure that those who are struggling have access to food, shelter, and vital resources.

The Importance of Community Support

With rising living costs affecting many, local nonprofits are experiencing unprecedented demands for assistance. The long-standing partnership between Walmart and The Salvation Army enables them to provide meals, toys, and crucial services to millions, ensuring that hope shines brightly this holiday season.

How to Participate and Give Back

The partnership will feature various ways for customers to contribute, which include:

• - Red Kettle Campaign: From November 15 to December 24, Walmart stores and Sam's Clubs will host The Salvation Army's iconic Red Kettles, where customers can make cash or digital donations.
• - Angel Tree Program: From November 15 to December 15, shoppers can select tags from Angel Trees to purchase gifts for children in need. Gifts collected will be distributed by local Salvation Army units.
• - Online Opportunities: Customers can support the Red Kettle Campaign through Round-Up donations or by purchasing gifts via The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Registry. All online purchases will be directly shipped to local units for distribution.

A Legacy of Helping Others

For over 40 years, Walmart and The Salvation Army have collaborated to bring hope to countless individuals across the nation. Through initiatives such as the Red Kettle Campaign and Angel Tree, they have enabled countless children to experience the joy of Christmas and helped families enjoy warm meals during the holidays.

Julie Gehrki, Senior Vice President at Walmart, remarked on the significance of this collaboration, stating, “We know our customers care deeply about their communities, especially during the holidays.” She emphasized that this partnership makes it easier for individuals to give back, reinforcing a culture of generosity.

Volunteer Opportunities

Community members are encouraged to engage in volunteer activities with their local Salvation Army centers. Opportunities may vary, and individuals can visit SalvationArmyUSA.org/volunteer for more information about getting involved.

In a world where many families are struggling, the collaboration between Walmart and The Salvation Army is a remarkable reminder of the power of community, generosity, and the collective effort to uplift those in need. As this holiday season unfolds, the spirit of giving is more crucial than ever, ensuring that joy and hope reach every home in America.