Walmart Inc. is helping victims of fires in Chile with both donations of vital supplies and a $1 million social investment to help its employees rebuild their lives.
The fires hit four communities around the port city of Valparaiso, damaging more that 7,000 homes.
Walmart Chile has 51 stores and more than 4,860 workers in the affected region.
The Walmart Foundation and Walmart Chile said they will invest the money in donations and volunteer time to nonprofits restoring facilities for children and supporting entrepreneurs -- especially women -- in the region who were affected economically by the fires.
The funds will also be used to help the families of Walmart Chile's employees. For instance, Walmart Chile has provided financial support through a solidarity fund and emergency credit and is offering free telemedicine and mental health services.
"The Valparaiso region is very important to Walmart Chile and a place where we have a significant part of our operation and associates," said Cristián Barrientos, Walmart Chile's chief executive officer.