Walmart Canada donates $100,000 to Food Banks Canada to help feed families in need

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Dec. 21, 2012 /CNW/ - Walmart Canada announced today a donation of $100,000 to Food Banks Canada to help local food banks improve access to food and vital services for those in need.  Walmart has one of the strongest community involvement programs in Canada with a mission to support Canadian families in need.

"Supporting food banks is a natural extension of our business as we open more supercentres, which offer a greater variety of food," said John Lawrence, director of corporate social responsibility at Walmart Canada.  "In true holiday spirit, we are proud to play a part in helping put food on the table for those in need this holiday season."

Food Banks Canada's HungerCount 2012 shows 882,000 individuals turned to a food bank each month for help this year - and more than 339,000 (38 per cent) of those assisted are children. "Every day, across the country, individuals and families are struggling to put food on their tables," said Katharine Schmidt, Executive Director of Food Banks Canada. "We are thrilled and grateful for Walmart Canada's generous donation at a time where food bank use is high. These much-needed funds will make the holidays a little brighter for thousands of Canadians."

Walmart Canada has donated an additional $85,000 to local food banks across the country, including $30,000 to Daily Bread Food Bank, $25,000  to Moisson Montreal, $25,000 to Banques alimentaires du Quebec, and $5,000 to Edmonton's Food Bank. "Our contributions to local food banks are one more way Walmart Canada is helping Canadians live better, one community at a time," added Lawrence.

About Walmart Canada
Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, Walmart Canada operates a growing network of more than 370 stores. Walmart Canada gives back to local communities in ways that matter most to its customers and associates.  In 2012, the company donated and raised more than $25 million or $480,000 weekly, to charities and organizations in need.

SOURCE: Walmart Canada