Walmart U.S. said it is making $24 million available in additional funds to stores (for giving) across the U.S. The engagement program called Walmart Rise is aimed at creating new and different ways to engage Walmart employees and customers in supporting communities. The announcement was made in connection with the retail giant’s annual shareholders’ week in Bentonville and the surrounding region.

The kickoff for the program will give an additional $5,000 to every Walmart store and distribution center across the U.S. this year, totaling over $24 million, to help spark change in their local communities. The community funds are designed to boost Walmart’s expected local community grant giving to nearly $70 million in this fiscal year.     MORE