/R E P E A T -- Walmart Canada Donates $100,000 to The Salvation Army's
Kettle Campaign/

Retailer's last-minute donation to reduce national shortfall

NORTH VANCOUVER , CALGARY , WINNIPEG and HALIFAX/DARTMOUTH, Dec. 22 /CNW/ - Walmart Canada is helping make Christmas a reality for Canadians coast-to-coast with a generous $100,000 donation to the Salvation Army's Kettle Campaign. The $100,000 donation will be allocated to the four Canadian cities with the greatest campaign shortfalls: North Vancouver , Calgary and Winnipeg , and Halifax/Dartmouth.

"Upon learning that donations to the Salvation Army's Kettle Campaign were down across the country, we knew we had to step in with a much-needed donation," said John Lawrence , Director of Corporate Social Responsibility for Walmart Canada . "We know that our funds will help ensure that the Army can do what it does best - make a difference in the lives of Canadians."

The Salvation Army's National Kettle Campaign helps The Salvation Army provide direct, compassionate, hands-on service to more than 1.5 million people in Canada each year, restoring hope and dignity to the most vulnerable in society. The Salvation Army's annual Christmas Campaign has grown into one of Canada's most significant and recognizable annual charitable events.

"The Salvation Army's National Kettle Campaign raises $16 million each year, and in 2009 that money is needed more than ever," said Graham Moore , Territorial Secretary for Public Relations and Development of The Salvation Army. "Walmart Canada has again shown their generosity with their support of our Christmas campaign."

In 2007, Walmart Canada stores, which serve more than one million Canadians daily, became the single largest fundraising venue for The Salvation Army's Christmas Kettle Campaign. To date, Walmart Canada and its customers have raised and donated more than $2.7 million to The Salvation Army as well as supported many in-store Angel Tree and Adopt-a-Family programs by collecting food, clothing, and toys for families in need.

About The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and 118 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, provides shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction.

When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.

About Walmart Canada:

Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, the company operates a growing network of 314 outlets and one of the strongest community involvement programs in Canada . Walmart gives back to local communities in ways that matter most to its customers and associates. In 2008, the company raised and donated more than $22 million or $423,000 weekly, to charities and organizations in need.

News releases, articles and updated information can be found at www.SalvationArmy.ca

For further information: Andrew Burditt, Territorial Public Relations Director, The Salvation Army, [phone], [email protected], www.SalvationArmy.ca; Felicia Fefer, Corporate Affairs, Walmart Canada, [phone] x 4466