Northwest Arkansas companies step up to help Louisiana flood relief efforts

Two Northwest Arkansas companies have already dispatched help to provide $1.5 million in cash and food for the victims and disaster relief workers in Baton Rouge, La., following the flood devastation in that city in recent days.

Wal-Mart Stores and its foundation Friday (Aug. 19) announced a $1 million contribution to Team Rubicon, Convoy of Hope, Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank and other organizations on the ground in Louisiana. The $1 million gift came on the heels of a $500,000 commitment made by Wal-Mart to provide support through cash and in-kind donations to organizations helping with the flood relief efforts.

Walmart said its total commitment of $1.5 million will be used to provide additional food, water, cleaning supplies and other essential items to those in critical need. Funds will also be used towards longer term recovery efforts.

“Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this disaster,” said Kathleen McLaughlin, president of the Walmart Foundation. “We have been working closely with nonprofit partners, first responders, elected officials and governmental organizations to learn how we can use our strengths to help. We will continue to be there for our friends, family, fellow associates, customers and neighbors in Louisiana.”

Tyson Foods also sent help to provide free meals to disaster survivors, responders and volunteers in Baton Rouge. The meat giant’s Meals that Matter mobile operation is capable of feeding more than 10,000 meals a day. The 53-foot trailer was set up in a major feeding center at the Cortana Mall in Baton Rouge which began Aug. 20.

Tyson executives said during times of disaster many residents may be so focused on recovery that they may not have time to prepare or access a hot meal and that’s where Meals the Matter can help. The trailer has enough space to store up to 20,000 pounds of product for initial response.

Cooking teams from Tyson traveled to Louisiana from Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi and Texas.