Walmart launches 'Golden Spark' promotion as part of hunger awareness campaign

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Walmart has launched part of its Fighting Hunger Together fall initiative to provide meals to communities in need.

The "Golden Spark" promotion, a $2.5 million initiative, gives consumers a chance to win "sparks" that will help fund childhood hunger programs in their communities. The Fighting Hunger Together fall initiative is part of Walmart and the Walmart Foundation's $2 billion commitment through 2015 to fight hunger. As a part of this commitment, Walmart and its Foundation pledged to donate more than 1.1 billion lbs. of food from Walmart stores, distribution centers and Sam's Club locations, valued at $1.75 billion, as well as $250 million in grants to support hunger relief organizations.

Walmart said the Fighting Hunger Together fall initiative launches amidst the release of the U.S. Department of Agriculture report which found that at some point during the year, more than 50 million Americans won't know where their next meal will come from, which is equivalent to 1-in-6 Americans.

"The USDA report is yet again proof that millions of Americans are facing the harsh reality of hunger this year and the issue is further compounded by a historic drought and the lingering effects of high unemployment rates," said Sylvia Mathews Burwell, president of the Walmart Foundation. "Walmart is committed to fighting hunger in America every day. By engaging our partners and providing unique and creative opportunities for our customers and associates to join the fight against hunger, such as this campaign, we know we can make an even greater impact and help local communities through this critical time."