BENTONVILLE, Ark., Feb. 27 — In response to the tragic earthquake in Chile, Walmart (NYSE: WMT) today announced an initial commitment of $1 million to go toward emergency relief efforts throughout the country.
An earthquake of magnitude 8.8 struck early Saturday morning, resulting in heavy damage throughout central Chile, including the capital city of Santiago.
“With the impact of this earthquake on our own communities, customers, associates and suppliers, we wanted to reach out with assistance as soon as possible,” said Eduardo Solorzano, president and CEO of Walmart Latin America, and vice chairman of D&S, Walmart’s retail operation in Chile. “Our operations in Chile are actively engaged in providing assistance on the ground, and we’re continuing to monitor the situation and look for additional ways that we can help with relief efforts.”
Walmart acquired D&S, Chile’s leading food retailer, in January 2009. D&S currently has more than 34,000 associates and operates 255 stores throughout the country.
“Giving back to our communities, especially in a time of need, is part of our culture at Walmart,” said Doug McMillon, president and CEO of Walmart International. “A crisis only reinforces that commitment, and our thoughts are with those affected by this disaster.”
Walmart has long been recognized as a corporate leader around the globe in the area of disaster relief. Most recently, Walmart supported earthquake relief efforts in Haiti, with cash and in-kind donations currently at more than $1 million. In addition, Walmart associates and customers globally have contributed more than $3 million to date for that relief effort.
Source: Walmart Stores Inc.