PHOENIX, Ariz. - April 17, 2014 - The Walmart Foundation is accepting grant applications from Arizona philanthropic organizations under its State Giving Program, but the deadline is fast approaching. In order to be considered for grant funding this cycle, applications must be received by 9:59 p.m. (AZ time) on April 26, 2014.

"Through its State Giving Program, the Walmart Foundation provides direct support to the organizations working daily to help Arizonans by providing job training, nutritious meals and other assistance to those most in need," said Pedro Andrade, Walmart Regional Director of Operations. "We are proud to assist these efforts and the Arizona communities in which we live and work."

Twice annually, the Walmart Foundation's State Giving Program looks for non-profit organizations best-serving the needs of the Arizona communities they serve. For this cycle, grants will be provided in core areas that include Hunger Relief & Healthy Eating, Sustainability, Career Opportunity and Women's Economic Empowerment.

Last year alone, the Arizona State Giving Program awarded $880,000 to Arizona non-profits. Grants range from $25,000 to $250,000 each. Arizona applications are reviewed by a State Advisory Council comprised of local Walmart associates, with funding recommendations made to the Walmart Foundation.

To be considered for support, prospective grantee organizations must submit applications through the Walmart Foundation State Giving Program's online grant application. Applicants must have a current 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status in order to meet the program's minimum eligibility criteria.

For more information, including State Giving Program application guidelines, please visit http://foundation.walmart.com/apply-for-grants/state-giving .

In 2012, total cash and in-kind donations from Walmart stores, clubs and the Walmart Foundation totaled more than $20.5 million in Arizona. Additionally, through the Feeding America program, Walmart in 2012 donated 10.3 million pounds of food in Arizona - equivalent to more than 8.6 million meals for Arizonans in need across our state.

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About Philanthropy at Walmart 

Walmart and the Walmart Foundation are committed to helping people live better through philanthropic efforts. By operating globally and giving back locally, Walmart is uniquely positioned to address the needs of the communities it serves and make a significant social impact within its core areas of giving: Hunger Relief & Healthy Eating, Sustainability, Career Opportunity and Women's Economic Empowerment. Walmart and the Walmart Foundation are leading the fight against hunger in the United States with a $2 billion commitment through 2015. Walmart has donated more than 1 billion meals to those in need across the country.foundation.walmart.com.

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