This month, bargain hunters may find more at their local Walmart Canada than great deals, as a partnership between the retailer and the Canadian Red Cross affords them the opportunity to easily give back to their community.
Walmart Canada has annually invited its customers to donate $1 to the Canadian Red Cross as they check out. Moreover, the company has pledged to match up to $2,000 in donations at each of its 330 stores.
Since 2003, the partnership has yielded $19 million for disaster relief efforts for Canadians struck by fires, floods, tornadoes and other emergencies and disasters. The money helps to pay for items including blankets, food and temporary housing, in addition to funding volunteer training.
"Walmart is one of the first corporations to help the Red Cross following a disaster offering in-kind goods, collecting funds, making corporate donations or offering a helping hand from its associates," said Tim Hoswitschka, director of national corporate relations for the Canadian Red Cross.
The campaign will run from Aug. 2 until Aug. 26. This year, organizers hope to raise $3.2 million for disaster and emergency efforts, a realistic goal considering last year's total of $2.9 million.