Walmart lends support to Brazilian flood victims

BENTONVILLE, Ark. -- Walmart announced that the Walmart Foundation committing more than $750,000 in cash and in-kind donations to support emergency relief efforts in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil where an estimated 827 people have been killed and thousands have been left homeless following torrential rains and mudslides. A $400,000 donation from the Walmart Foundation will help purchase critical supplies like water, food, medical supplies and long-term relief efforts.

In addition to Walmart's donation, Walmart Brazil has donated basic food and cleaning items and is leading efforts with partners and customers, assuring the logistics from donations points at several stores to the official government organizations, the company reported. Also, Walmart Brazil started donation campaigns with associates to help affected communities and is working with the U.S. Embassy, suppliers and various U.S. companies to increase support and donations to flood victims. This local effort has raised nearly 100 tons of donations, with an estimated value of more than $350,000.

"Our company has a longstanding commitment to help in times of disaster. The people of Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are facing difficult times and we're here to help," said Eduardo Solorzano, president and CEO of Walmart Latinoamerica. Walmart has long been known for reaching out to the Brazilian people in times of need, including a $300,000 donation in 2008 to assist those affected by the floods in Santa Catarina. "We'll continue to monitor the situation and look for opportunities to help and ensure that essential needs are being met," added Solorzano.