Walmart gives back to the community by supporting Exploration Place

In a remarkable display of community support, Walmart recently celebrated the re-grand opening of its store on Pawnee in South Wichita. The store, which underwent an impressive remodel, took this opportunity to give back to the community by supporting local charities. As part of their unwavering commitment to making a positive impact, Walmart Store 1099 generously donated $1000 to Exploration Place, specifically earmarked for their hospital outreach program. This important initiative focuses on providing STEM education kits to children receiving medical care in hospitals, aiming to bring joy and valuable educational opportunities to young patients during their stays.

The hospital outreach program collaborates with two medical institutions in Wichita: Wesley Children’s Hospital and Children’s Miracle Network at Via Christi St. Francis. From August to May, every two weeks, 15 STEM education kits are delivered to Wesley Children’s Hospital, ensuring a steady supply of engaging activities for young patients. Similarly, Children’s Miracle Network at Via Christi St. Francis receives 20 kits per month, totaling 240 kits per year. These kits are thoughtfully designed to include a variety of fun and interactive science activities, tailored to suit the age and interests of the children.

Walmart’s support of Exploration Place’s hospital outreach program dates back to 2020, showcasing its ongoing dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of young patients. The impact of these STEM education kits extends far beyond mere entertainment. They provide a precious opportunity for hospitalized children to explore the captivating world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, even amidst challenging circumstances. These engaging activities not only stimulate curiosity but also foster creativity and ignite a love for learning, offering a sense of normalcy and personal growth during their medical journeys.

Jennifer Clark, the Development Officer at Exploration Place, gratefully accepted the generous donation made by Walmart to support the hospital outreach program. With the invaluable support of Walmart and the collaborative efforts of the hospital outreach program, children in Wichita who face challenging times receive much more than just comfort—they experience a boost of happiness and regain a sense of normalcy while undergoing medical care.