Walmart Recognized for Efforts to End Child Hunger

The National Governors Association has honored Wal-Mart Stores Inc. with its annual Public-Private Partnership Award, which recognized that have partnered with a governor’s office to implement a program that positively affects the state’s citizens.

Walmart was nominated by Arkansas Gov. Mike Beebe for its leadership in the No Kid Hungry Campaign, which brings together leaders with the knowledge, experience and resources to improve access to hunger relief programs, strengthen community infrastructure for food delivery and expand families’ knowledge about available healthy food resources throughout Arkansas.

The Bentonville, Ark.-based mega retailer committed immediately to the initiative, contributing $150,000 to fund first-year program priorities, and, as part of a diverse group of stakeholders, helping to identify ways the organizations involved can interface with each other to best utilize their resources to end childhood hunger.

“Walmart’s business and charitable giving are united in their commitment to eradicate hunger here in Arkansas and across the entire nation,” said Gerard Derhman, Walmart senior director for public affairs and government relations. “Walmart is proud to use its size and scale to help put food on the table for the children of Arkansas and the millions of other Americans who suffer from food insecurity in the U.S.”

Nationally, Walmart has donated $2 billion in cash and in-kind commitments, and the five-year initiative includes providing more than 1.1 billion pounds of food from Walmart stores, distribution center and Sam’s Club locations.

“Walmart has demonstrated a commitment to philanthropic efforts across the nation, but its efforts here in Arkansas have been particularly generous and noteworthy,” Beebe said. “We can maximize the potential of every child only when the most basic health and wellness needs are met. Walmart’s immediate willingness to help fund and facilitate the No Kid Hungry Campaign speaks volumes about the company and its dedication to Arkansas's youngest citizens.”

The NGA Corporate Fellows Program, now in its 22nd year, promotes the exchange of information between the private sector and governors on emerging trends and factors affecting both business and state government.