Wal-Mart Foundation to donate $25M

BENTONVILLE, Ark. Wal-Mart announced that it will donate $25 million to organizations that help communities across the country through its Wal-Mart Foundation. Wal-Mart's support includes three new grants announced on Wednesday, Dec. 10, totaling $1.25 million to Meals On Wheels Association of America, Fisher House and Operation Homefront.

"In these difficult times, the work that we do to support the communities we serve is more important than ever," said Margaret McKenna, president of the Wal-Mart Foundation. "And to reinforce our commitment to support organizations that create opportunities for individuals and families to live better, we plan to increase our charitable giving in 2009."

The Wal-Mart Foundation is focusing its attention towards efforts that support those hit hardest by the economic crisis. The Foundation also directed Walmart stores and Sam's Clubs across the country to take similar action with their community giving. This holiday season, Walmart stores and Sam's Clubs will give more than $20 million to local community organizations. Stores and clubs will work with organizations that address such basic unmet needs as hunger, homelessness, day care, job training and financial counseling.