Walmart pledges $2 billion to help end hunger in America

Bentonville, Ark. Walmart and the Walmart Foundation announced a $2 billion cash and in-kind commitment Wednesday, stepping up efforts to help end hunger in America. The new five-year initiative, "Fighting Hunger Together," includes four key components:

• Donating more than 1.1 billion lbs. of food from Walmart stores, distribution centers and Sam's Club locations, valued at $1.75 billion;

• Grants totaling $250 million to support hunger relief organizations at the national, state and local levels;

• Mobilizing Walmart associates and customers. For example, Walmart's logistics team will lend their expertise to help food banks become more efficient in their operations; and

Collaboration with government, food manufacturers and other corporations that are fighting hunger to increase impact and reach a greater number of families in need.

The Walmart Foundation announced the first grants as part of this commitment, including donations totaling $8 million, will help U.S. food banks improve capacity. This includes $6 million to purchase 60 refrigerated trucks for Feeding America food banks, and donations totaling $10 million will help ensure that children across the United States are fed healthy meals during the school year and summer months.