When I headed over to the Georgetown Walmart last Friday, I had my camera and notepad, and was expecting a run-of-the-mill late-afternoon check donation photo-op.
But as soon as I crossed the doorway into Walmart’s greenhouse, where the announcement was taking place, I knew I was in for something much different... and much better.
The whole floor was crowded with dignitaries, Walmart employees, media reps and many gentlemen who we’ll simply refer to as “suits.”
Walmart presented a check for $50,000 to First State Community Action Agency (FSCAA), a truly grand offering and a great example of cooperation in this struggling economy.
Anyone familiar with the HBO show The Wire knows that dysfunction in one institution (the economy) ripples out to affect every other institution (the family, the school system, the police department, etc.). Even retail monolith Walmart has not been completely immune to the economic downturn – although it was one of the few companies whose fourth-quarter sales earnings actually grew over December, posting a 1.7 percent bump – and it is wonderful to see them step up to the plate with such a sizable contribution.
Additionally, it’s hard to come up with a local recipient more worthy than FSCAA. The agency’s programs include community development and community-based programs, after-school initiatives, employment and training aid, family resources and help with housing problems.
Founded in 1965 as the Sussex County Community Action Agency, FSCAA is one of the oldest local social service providers, and with the Walmart grant, officials are looking to expand its programs in all three counties, extend the hours for its after-school program in Sussex, as well as establish a permanent presence in Kent County.
Things are not going to be getting any easier for FSCAA officials anytime soon; and especially not for the vast majority of the clients they serve. Any kind of grant – let alone one for $50,000 – could not have come at a better time.
And in the words of Rep. Joe Booth (R-Georgetown), on hand for the check presentation, “I hope there are other businesses out there that see this and step up to help with other programs.”
