Walmart gives $467 million to U.S. nonprofits

Walmart announced Thursday (April 1) its charitable giving in the U.S. totaled more than $467 million in cash and in-kind gifts in fiscal year ending 2010 — an $89 million increase, or 23%, over the previous year’s giving.

In international markets, Walmart gave $45 million in cash and in-kind gifts.

The world’s largest retailer gave more than 127 million pounds of food — the equivalent of nearly 100 million meals — from Walmart stores, Walmart distribution centers and Sam’s Club locations. Walmart increased food donations by 81 million pounds over its fiscal year 2009 period.

In addition, Walmart employees in the U.S. donated more than 1.5 million volunteer hours, a 25% increase over the previous fiscal year.