BENTONVILLE, Ark., — During the holidays, Walmart and The Salvation Army work together through two iconic giving programs — the Red Kettle and Angel Tree campaigns.
But because of the pandemic, they’ve had to find new and innovative ways to help people continue to give to those in need. Now, Walmart has partnered with The Salvation Army to give these impactful campaigns a new virtual platform this season.
In addition to dropping spare change into those famous red kettles outside the store and other stores, customers who shop Walmart online and in the Walmart app can now round up their total to the nearest dollar amount, with those leftover pennies being donated to The Salvation Army, supporting its mission to make the season a little brighter for families.
Customers across the country can keep adding change to the virtual red kettles through Thursday, Dec. 31. Donations are distributed by The Salvation Army based on the donor’s billing zip code, and benefit The Salvation Army location serving that community.
Customers have for years also sponsored local children whose wish lists have adorned Angel Trees at the front of the store. That program, which lets customers drop off new items like clothing and toys for local kids, for the first time ever also launched online.
Gifts purchased online through Friday, Dec. 18, go straight to The Salvation Army of the buyer’s choice.
“We believe in being more than just a retailer. We believe in being an integral part of the local communities where our stores, clubs and facilities exist,” said Elizabeth Willett, Walmart director of strategic initiatives.
“We are endlessly inspired by the generosity our customers show, and proud to use our scope and scale to make it even easier for them to give, especially during this difficult year,” Willett said.
Walmart and The Salvation Army have collaborated for more than 40 years to help meet the needs of people in communities across the country.
