Sep 7, 2006 9:16 AM, from staff and wire reports

Wal-Mart Stores Inc and America’s Second Harvest—The Nation’s Food Bank Network (A2H) have begun delivering nearly 7.5 million meals to the needy through a monthlong series of regional events at local food banks nationwide.

Throughout September, more than 400 semitrucks, each filled with protein-rich food, will be delivered to local food banks to help fight hunger in the United States. Wal-Mart and Sam's Club associates nationwide will partner with A2H food banks to aid delivery and distribution of food.

The food delivery is a direct result of the $8.7 million donated and raised on behalf of the A2H network through Wal-Mart stores and Sam's Club locations nationwide in spring 2006. Of the total raised and donated, $7.2 million will be used toward purchasing and distributing protein-rich foods through A2H member food banks.

Wal-Mart and Sam's Club helped augment A2H’s Food Solicitation and Distribution Program and provide healthier options—fresh produce, protein, and whole wheat. These food items are among those least donated and most difficult to distribute due to their perishable nature.