LPGA event a cause for donations

While Walmart and the Walton family were taking heat, again, on the national stage over worker pay and alleged stinginess, it was a different situation in Northwest Arkansas where generosity was in plain view.

The Walmart NW Arkansas Championship presented by P&G is underway at the Pinnacle Country Club and as has been the case in years past the LPGA golf tournament is accompanied by numerous charitable donations.

The Arkansas Children’s Hospital was on the receiving end of a $100,000 donation to support expansion of a pediatric cancer clinic at the Centers for Children in Lowell, Ark. An even larger $450,000 check was presented by Walmart to the Northwest Arkansas Council to support projects that foster economic development, diversity and inclusion. The grant to the economic development organization is part of the company’s commitment to support regional growth.

“At Walmart, we are dedicated to fostering growth and prosperity in our hometown of Northwest Arkansas,” said Kathleen McLaughlin, SVP of corporate affairs and president of the Walmart Foundation. “That’s why we provide support to organizations like the Northwest Arkansas Council, so we can help further economic development here at home.”

Another check presented by Walmart and Unilever for $15,000 went to support the Boys & Girls Club. The donation was made by executive of both companies at the opening of the Walmart Kids Center presented by Dove, a place for kids and families to gather during the golf tournament.