Food Bank receives Wal-Mart grant to increase donations

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma has received a $55,000 grant from the Walmart Foundation to fund a new employee who will work with retailers to secure more donated food.

The Regional Food Bank is one of 15 Feeding America member food banks across the nation to be awarded a grant this year to hire a retail store donation coordinator. The grant is designed to support the first year salary and benefits costs for the staff position.

Officials say retail store donations are a critical component of serving more people struggling with hunger. A staff person dedicated to working with retailers to rescue and distribute food that might otherwise go to waste will help build the capacity of the Regional Food Bank and help better meet the ongoing local need.