The Central California Women’s Conference — a Clovis-based nonprofit — received a total of $7,500 in grants. The event was held in September. CCWC photo
Fresno nonprofits were collectively awarded $60,000 in grants by Walmart in the second quarter of 2025. The funds were provided through the retailer’s Spark Good program.
Local organizations that received funding support women and children, care for animals and provide resources to vulnerable populations.
The Central California Women’s Conference — a Clovis-based nonprofit — received a total of $7,500 in grants.
The money went toward the organization’s annual one-day conference, last held Sept. 22, which successfully raised more than $110,000 in community funds. Funds were distributed in the form of grants to 72 local organizations.
“This grant has been transformative in advancing our mission of empowering women,” said Karen Franz, director of development for the Central California Women’s Conference.
Pawsitive Connections — a nonprofit “no-kill” dog rescue in Kingsburg — received a $1,000 Spark Good grant.
The funds provided crucial support for the rescue, including dog food — one of the rescue’s largest expenses, said Penny Pumphrey from Pawsitive Connections.
“This grant helped ensure every dog in our care had what they needed to stay healthy, which allowed us to take in more senior and medical cases that might otherwise be overlooked,” Pumphrey said.
Two additional Fresno-based organizations received help through the Spark Good program.
Exceptional Parents Unlimited received a $1,000 grant to support families with training programs to support children ages 5 and under.
Refuge Aroma was granted $1,000 to help create safe spaces for children after school and offer assistance with schoolwork.
“At Walmart, we’re proud to invest in organizations that make a real difference in our neighborhoods,” said Hector Benavides, Walmart market manager. “It’s inspiring to see groups like the Central California Women’s Conference and Refuge Aroma create programs that uplift residents and strengthen our community.”
“Knowing that Walmart is investing into our communities and initiatives is truly rewarding to see,” said Benavides.
Walmart employs 100,000 staff throughout their 303 California-based retail locations. The company works with local businesses — spending $32.4 billion and supporting 343,848 California supplier jobs in the 2024 fiscal year.