Walmart’s Feeding America Campaign Encourages Omnichannel Giving

Walmart isn’t exactly synonymous with humanitarian efforts, but in the age of socially conscious consumers and brand activism, it might just be good business to fight hunger with everything the multinational retailer has got.

From today until April 25, at least, that’s exactly what Walmart will be doing. The retailer announced Monday (March 28) that it’s kicking off a campaign called “Fight Hunger. Spark Change.” that seeks to empower customers through in-store and online actions in an effort to raise money for 75 million meals across America’s food banks. Customers can purchase participating products in Walmart stores, for which the item manufacturer will donate $0.09 each — the average price of a meal in a local food bank — to Feeding America. Online shoppers can take to social media by using the hashtag #FightHunger and a specially created emoji for the campaign, for which Walmart will donate 10 meals (or 90 cents) at each mention.

Kathleen McLaughlin, president of the Walmart Foundation and chief sustainability officer at Walmart, explained that the “Fight Hunger. Spark Change.” movement is a chance for everyone in the Walmart family — from the executives themselves, down through the suppliers and ending with the consumer  to chip in to end hunger.

“This campaign is a great example of our long-standing commitment to hunger relief and dedication to ensuring every family has access to affordable, healthier and sustainably grown food,” McLaughlin said in a statement. “Successful partnerships are the key to making a positive impact on the issue of hunger in the U.S. and we’re proud to once again work with Feeding America, the nation’s leading organization dedicated to fighting hunger. Together with Feeding America, our suppliers and customers, we’re working to generate the equivalent of 75 million meals that will make a real difference for families who are struggling with hunger.”