Texas – After catastrophic flooding in Central and South Texas, major retailers like Walmart, Sam’s Club, and H-E-B have stepped up to assist communities recover and rebuild. These companies are giving money, basic goods, and on-the-ground help to families who have lost loved ones and are unsure of what to do next. They are doing this to bring comfort and stability at a moment of need.
Walmart, Sam’s Club, and the Walmart Foundation have promised up to $500,000 in aid. Half of the money will be used to match donations made by customers and members through a campaign with The Salvation Army. The matching campaign will soon be accessible online and at stores and clubs all around Texas, making each donation worth more.
John Furner, President and CEO of Walmart U.S., expressed deep concern for those affected.
“We are heartbroken by the devastation our associates, friends and neighbors in Texas are facing, especially the families of those who have lost loved ones,” said Furner. “We’re working hand-in-hand with local leaders and first responders to ensure help reaches those who need it most.”
Walmart and Sam’s Club are also working with nonprofits and other resources to provide direct help on the ground, in addition to giving money. Operation BBQ Relief started giving out free hot meals on July 7 at the Kerrville Walmart Supercenter. In the meanwhile, Matthew 25: Ministries, Procter & Gamble, and Walmart are working together to send Tide’s Loads of Hope laundry trucks and mobile showers to help families who have lost access to basic amenities. The American Red Cross and The Salvation Army have also received direct support in the form of food, water, and crucial supplies.
“Our hearts go out to the families, associates and members affected by this disaster,” said Chris Nicholas, President and CEO, Sam’s Club. “We will stand by the Kerrville community and help provide the resources and support they need as they recover and rebuild.”
H-E-B is also making a big impact in addition to Walmart’s efforts. The grocery store company in Texas has promised to give $2 million to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund, which is run by the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country. The money will be used for rescue efforts, community recovery programs, and giving families in flood-affected towns including Ingram, Hunt, Kerrville, Comfort, and Center Point immediate cash help.
“For 120 years, the Butt family has proudly called Kerrville home,” said Howard Butt III, H-E-B CEO. “Our hearts ache for the children, families, and communities facing tremendous loss throughout Texas in the wake of these floods. Our Partners have big hearts, and we will continue to support our neighbors. H-E-B and our dedicated Partners are here to help.”
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As promised, H-E-B has sent its disaster response fleet, which includes a mobile kitchen in Ingram, to serve meals and deliver necessities like bottled water, cleaning supplies, and H-E-B gift cards to areas that were hit hard by the severe weather, such as Burnet, Marble Falls, San Angelo, and Liberty Hill. H-E-B is collaborating with local schools and nonprofits like United Way of the Concho Valley and Ingram ISD to get help directly to families and kids in need.
The grocery store has also started a check stand contribution campaign, which lets customers give money to the cause in person, online, or through the Favor App. All of the money raised will go to nonprofit organizations that are helping with the flood response. H-E-B is also helping its own workers who were affected by the disaster by giving them money and counseling.
“Our founder Florence Butt was known for sharing food with those in need on the banks of the Guadalupe River. Her commitment to serving others inspired H-E-B’s Spirit of Giving which is a cornerstone of our company. Today we are proud to continue her legacy and stand with great resolve to help our communities as they begin to recover,” Butt said.
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As the state deals with a lot of damage, these cooperative efforts send a strong message of unity, strength, and corporate responsibility. Walmart, Sam’s Club, and H-E-B are helping Texas families start to heal by giving them food and laundry services, matching donations, and supporting rehabilitation programs.
