Walmart and the Walmart Foundation are committing $500,000 in grants and in-kind support to help meet immediate needs across the Spokane, Washington, region as communities respond to the Spokane Complex Fires.
The fires broke out Aug. 1 amid hot, dry and extremely windy conditions, quickly becoming one of the worst disasters in Spokane County history and the most destructive wildfire in Washington state history. At least 900 structures have been destroyed, and more than 60,000 people were forced to evacuate, according to local reports. County officials lifted all remaining evacuation levels Aug. 11.
Since the fires began, Walmart teams have been working with local leaders and community organizations, including Innovia Foundation, Save The Children, Second Harvest Food Bank, Spokane Public Schools and Spokane County Emergency Management, to identify needs and support the broader response.
“Families across the Spokane region have experienced tremendous loss, including some of our own associates. We know the days ahead will be difficult, and we want them to know Walmart is standing with them,” said Jay Cordray, SVP of the West business unit at Walmart. “We’re working with trusted organizations across the region to help provide food, essential items and other immediate support to families who need it most.”
Relief efforts
The $500,000 commitment will be distributed between grants and in-kind support. Grant funding is directed to organizations providing relief and direct household assistance in some of the hardest-hit communities, while in-kind support will address critical needs, including food and water, cleaning supplies, hygiene products, diapers and other essentials for displaced families.
Walmart Store 5883, located near incident command, an evacuation center and first-responder operations, is serving as a gathering place for nonprofit and community organizations supporting the response.
As families prepare for the school year, Walmart also is working with Spokane Public Schools to help students and families replace school supplies and other essentials lost in the fires. The district has created a Disaster Response Center at Shadle Park High School, where families can drop in for school supplies, baby formula, apparel and other items.
West Virginia donation
This donation comes on the heels of Walmart and the Walmart Foundation donating $500,000 to support West Virginia communities impacted by severe flooding. In the July 24 announcement, the company said the donation would be accompanied by on-the-ground relief efforts, including cleanup.
Related: Walmart Foundation Commits Up To $250,000 In Grants For HI Disaster Relief