Walmart and the Walmart Foundation have committed $500,000 in grants and support to assist communities affected by the Spokane Complex fires, which destroyed hundreds of homes in Spokane County.
The company is coordinating with local organizations and agencies to identify immediate and long-term needs. Partners include the Innovia Foundation, Save the Children, Second Harvest Food Bank, Spokane Public Schools and Spokane County Emergency Management.
Walmart said its support will focus on essential services, assistance for families who lost homes and back-to-school needs for students and families affected by the fires. The company also plans to support nonprofit organizations working directly with survivors.
In addition, the Walmart store at 5025 E. Sprague Ave. will provide space for nonprofit and community organizations assisting residents with recovery efforts.
The company said its disaster response is intended to extend beyond the immediate aftermath. Walmart has previously provided support following disasters including Hurricane Katrina, wildfires in Maui and California, and flooding in Western Washington.
The Spokane Complex fires began Aug. 1. Evacuation levels were lifted Aug. 11, as the community moved into the recovery phase.
