Of the more than 1 million items that pass through the Free Store each year, a good number are brand new items donated by Walmart, thanks to a longstanding partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank. Second Harvest distributes the food products through their hunger relief programs. Non-food items stock the shelves of Crisis Assistance Ministry‘s store where families can shop free-of-charge for basics.
Over the years, Walmart has been intentional about leveraging its strengths, associates, and other resources to build resiliency in communities. Through collaboration and philanthropic funding, Walmart works to provide convenient access to healthier food, stable jobs, and support in times of disasters, in order to build strong local economies.
Recently, Walmart made a generous $20,000 donation to Crisis Assistance Ministry to support families struggling to meet life’s basic needs. Leaders from Walmart had the opportunity to meet with several customers who completed the Economic Mobility Program. Company leaders listened intently to stories of financial crisis, overcoming hardship, and charting a path to self-sufficiency.
“Crisis Assistance Ministry is an outstanding organization making an undeniable impact in the Charlotte market,” said Michelle Azel Belaire, Senior Director of Community Relations, Walmart. “Walmart is proud to support the work Crisis Assistance Ministry is doing. Our philanthropic approach is rooted in our company’s mission to create opportunity so people can live better.”
“Walmart’s gift will bring help and hope to so many Charlotteans who often feel forgotten,” said Carol Hardison, Crisis Assistance Ministry CEO. “Thank you for making a positive impact in the community.”