Belleview Elementary School was selected as a recipient by Walmart Transportation for the Walmart Miles for Education program. Walmart Transportation Human Resource Manager Sydney Sims and Operations Manager Jim Martinez presented a check of $2,743.68 to Belleview principal Crystal Milinich in a ceremony Friday morning.
For every accident-free mile they drove during a selected week in August, the Walmart Foundation made the financial contribution as specific drivers earned one penny for every mile they drive.
“A donation this large allows us to purchase or fully fund something that will significantly impact our current and future students,” Milinich said. “Playground equipment, a shade structure, and library needs all come to mind initially. Belleview is really in a transformational state with our new building almost complete and we have many needs. Students and staff will contribute ideas as to how best apply the donation. It is such an unexpected gift and as a staff we are all so very grateful for Walmart Transportation's generosity.”
As of 2014, the Walmart distribution center in Porterville, along with the retail store, accounts for nearly 1,000 jobs which represent the third-highest number of jobs in the city.
In 2014, Walmart and the Walmart Foundation gave $1.4 billion in cash and in-kind contributions around the world. Global in-kind donations accounted for $1 billion, while $309 million was given in cash globally.