This will be a very special year for Walmart and Children's Miracle Network, as 2009 marks the 15-year anniversary of their partnership. Thanks to Walmart Canada, its associates, customers and vendor partners, more than $40 million has been raised for children’s hospitals across Canada since 1994. This incredible feat has made Walmart Canada Children's Miracle Network’s largest corporate sponsor.
Throughout the year, Walmart and their associates engage in series of creative and successful campaigns that not only raise funds for Children's Miracle Network, but also help raise significant awareness so that the public understands the important work done at our member children’s hospitals.
Its signature event, the Walmart Walk for Miracles, has inspired 16,000 Canadians to come out to 12 walk locations across the country and raised a record-setting $1.6 million. Through its network of stores, Walmart associates encourage their customers to sign up, gather pledges and join them at their local Walk site.
During the month of May, Walmart Canada associates reach out to their communities by selling Children's Miracle Network paper icons. In 2008, associates in every store continued to raise the bar by selling a record setting $2.15 million balloon with proceeds supporting their local children’s hospital.
But the generosity witnessed in Walmart stores does not end there. Throughout the year, associates in their store and at Walmart’s home office embark on many campaigns to raise funds for Children's Miracle Network hospitals. Whether it’s a bake sale or a bowling tournament, the associates pull together to help make miracles happen for children in their community. All funds raised in Walmart stores are also eligible for a generous corporate match program that matches all funds up to $2,000 per store.
In addition, product promotions held by Walmart’s extensive list of vendor partners raise much needed dollars for equipment, research and special programs at children’s hospitals in Canada. These programs are often heavily promoted, helping raise significant awareness and millions of dollars over the years.
Finally, Children's Miracle Network Champions Across Canada presented by Walmart Canada is a special program that brings together Ambassador children representing 12 children’s hospital foundations to celebrate pediatric health and wellness. This year is Walmart’s fourth consecutive year sponsoring the program, enabling Canadian Champions and their families to travel to Ottawa and Orlando to meet other Champions from across North America, the UK, Ireland and Australia.
On behalf of the 2.6 million treated in children’s hospitals across the country last year, thank you Walmart Canada for your continued support and for helping to make miracles happen for kids.