Wal-Mart hands out grants

By By Chris Whitaker / staff writer
May 21, 2002
Six schools and area organizations will receive financial help from grants recently awarded by Wal-Mart.
Chris Griffin, assistant manager of the Wal-Mart SuperCenter in Meridian, said the company has distributed grants through its "Good Works" program since 1962.
Organizations are considered for help when they file a grant application. Griffin said the grant application describes what the organization is doing and how it will use the grant.
The recipients were:
The Meridian Symphony Association: $1,000. Symphony General Manager Shayne Garrett said the money will help cover expenses of pianist Andrea Padova, who will play at the symphony's first concert, "A Romantic Opening Night," on Sept. 7.
Poplar Springs Elementary PTA: $1,000. Dena Patterson, the PTA first vice president, said the money will be spent on educational materials at the school.
Enterprise Middle School: $500. Rita Windham, assistant superintendent of Enterprise schools, said the money will help improve curriculum and technology by obtaining software and other materials.
Lauderdale County Baptist Association: $500. Wayne Edwards, director of missions, said the money will help fund youth activities, including a morning prayer service at school flagpoles and a sexual abstinence program for teens.
Southeast High School: $200. Jacqualine Stephens, principal at Southeast High School Attendance Center, said the money will go toward student supplies housed in the school's teacher work center.
The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program of Meridian and Lauderdale County: $200. Project Director Mary H. Lawson Sharpe said the funds will help reimburse senior citizens for gasoline and medical expenses.