Local Walmart and Sam's Club associates, customers and members recently wrapped up a seven-week campaign, collecting more than $270,000 on behalf of Johns Hopkins Children’s Center. It was part of a national campaign for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals which resulted in nearly $37 million for member hospitals across America.

Donations poured in Aug. 29 to Oct. 16, as Walmart and Sam’s Club associates at 45 locations held various in-store fundraising activities and asked customers and members at the register to help kids live better.

All funds raised through this campaign will be used to directly help patients and families at the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center – over 90% of whom are from the State of Maryland. The Johns Hopkins Children’s Center is Maryland’s largest pediatric hospital with one of the most comprehensive pediatric medical programs in the country.

"Walmart and Sam’s Club associates are some of our most passionate and valuable fundraisers,” said John Lauck, president and CEO of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. “When an associate realizes the opportunity he or she has to save kids’ lives by simply inviting people to give $1 or more at the register, an incredible thing happens. Members and customers respond. We’re extremely grateful to the millions who contributed to this year’s campaign to help kids live better.”

The fall campaign is the most recent in annual fundraising by the retailers. Walmart and Sam's Club associates have collected nearly $1 billion for sick and injured children since partnering with the charity in 1987. Funds raised through Walmart and Sam's Club impact each of the 170 Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, which treat one in 10 children across North America. Hospitals utilize the funds based on what they need most — typically providing lifesaving equipment and research, supporting top therapy programs and providing charitable care.

For more information on Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, visit: www.CMNHospitals.org.