Walmart Commits $1.5 Million in Grants to Local Nonprofits

For the first time, Walmart is asking Facebook users to write in or nominate local nonprofits to receive part of $1.5 million in grants it is giving out this holiday season. Through its “12 Days of Giving” campaign, the company will accept submissions via Facebook with an eye for local organizations that are providing basic needs such as food, shelter, clothing and baby supplies.

“Many of our Facebook fans make charitable donations and talk with each other about special needs in their communities, especially during the holidays,” said Wanda Young, senior director of social media for Walmart US. “We wanted to go where these conversations are already happening and give users the opportunity to take the next step by nominating organizations they feel are providing especially critical services.”

Now through November 30, users can visit Walmart’s Facebook page to nominate a nonprofit for the “12 Days of Giving.”

Visitors can nominate local organizations by submitting a 200-word description, including the nonprofit’s impact in its local community. Participants must also submit photos illustrating how the nonprofit helps families make ends meet; a gallery on the page will highlight submissions throughout the campaign.

A panel from the Walmart Foundation will review submissions and select the winners. Grant recipients will be announced on Facebook daily from Dec. 12 to Dec. 23.

“Giving back has always been part of Walmart’s tradition—not just during the holidays but year-round—and much of this is done through partnerships with local nonprofits,” said Julie Gehrki, senior director at the Walmart Foundation, in a statement. “We want every dollar to be as impactful as possible and think that local, individual submissions will help us uncover the greatest needs.”

Including this campaign, the Walmart Foundation is providing more than $19 million in grants this holiday season, the company said.