Walmart, Sam’s Club unveil new disaster response investments to help communities
Walmart and Sam’s Club have unveiled new disaster response investments to help communities that the stores serve.
The company said the effort builds its long history supporting communities when natural disasters hit.
As natural disasters increase in frequency and a potentially historic hurricane season begins, Walmart is unveiling investments in new disaster response mobile units run by nonprofit organizations with expertise in disaster response. The new mobile units can bring communities access to the resources and services people often need most when natural disasters result in power outages and home damage, such as charging and Wi-Fi access.
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As Walmart and Sam’s Club often serve as an early destination for people to access the products and services they need during these challenging times, these mobile units deploy in store or club parking lots, as well as other community locations convenient to people impacted. The new mobile units include:
Information Technology Disaster Resource Center: Mobile Charging Station and Wi-Fi Hotspot
Operation BBQ Relief: Mobile Kitchen
Matthew 25: Ministries: Walmart.org and P&G Mobile Shower Trailer
Matthew 25: Ministries: Walmart.org and P&G Tide Loads of Hope Mobile Laundry Unit
The new disaster response mobile units are in addition to Walmart’s Mobile Relief Kitchen operated by Walmart drivers. The mobile units have already started deploying in communities across the United States, helping thousands of people impacted by natural disasters.
Before, during and after disasters, Walmart’s emergency management team and associates across the company coordinate to support impacted associates, deliver merchandise and collaborate with local governments and response organizations to determine the needs in the community.
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Since FY2022, Walmart, Sam’s Club and the Walmart Foundation have contributed more than $55 million for disaster preparedness and response globally.