The July 4th weekend is usually a time to celebrate with friends and family. Many in the United States were enjoying fireworks without imagining what would happen. The tragedy shocked an entire community in Texas.
July had just begun when heavy rains caused the Guadalupe River (río Guadalupe) near San Antonio to overflow. Within hours, a flash flood occurred that became one of the deadliest in the country in one hundred years. At least 95 people, many of them minors, have died and there are missing persons, leaving the holiday as a time of mourning and anguish.
Walmart and Sam’s Club respond to the tragedy
Texas is key for Walmart, with 592 stores and 81 Sam’s Clubs across the state. That's why the company decided not to stand idly by after the damage that devastated the area, including the girls' camp Camp Mystic, which was swept away by the water. The company had revenues close to $681 billion in 2024, so it considered it logical to share part of those resources with the community.
Walmart, Sam’s Club, and the Walmart Foundation announced up to $500,000 in direct and in-kind donations, according to The Street. These include food, water, and essential supplies for the most affected families. In addition, they are working with organizations such as the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army to distribute supplies.
To increase the impact, Walmart will match customer donations in Texas up to an additional $250,000. Contributions can be made online or in stores, generating a large mobilization of solidarity. "We're working with local leaders and rescue teams to make sure help reaches those who need it most," said John Furner, CEO of Walmart U.S., in an official statement.
More community support and a change of atmosphere in stores
Sam’s Club also spoke out with a message of support and commitment: "Our hearts are with the families, associates, and members affected by this disaster. We'll stand with the Kerrville community to provide the resources and support they need as they recover," said Chris Nicholas, president and CEO of Sam’s Club. The initiative aims not only to deliver material resources, but also to accompany families in a rebuilding process that is expected to be long and difficult.
Together with the Red Cross and the Salvation Army, Walmart is funding free meals with Operation BBQ Relief. In addition to laundry services and mobile showers with Matthew 25: Ministries and Procter & Gamble.
Walmart and Sam’s Club's commitment strengthens their bond with one of their largest customer bases in the country. Beyond immediate aid, the company states that they will continue working with local organizations to address future needs. This way, they seek to ease the pain of a July 4th that, for many, will be impossible to forget.