MISSION – Special Olympics Kansas (SOKS) Healthy Communities Program is a recipient of a $25,000 grant from Walmart.  A presentation was held in Topeka as the Walmart Kansas State Giving Program awarded nearly $610,000 to Kansas nonprofits.  Sen. Pat Roberts, Walmart executives, associates and 13 nonprofits attended the ceremony.
 “Our program will support all individuals with intellectual disabilities,” stated Corazon Ochanda, director of the program.  “It provides basic health screenings, exercise programs, and referrals for advanced medial treatment.”
 Josh Alters, Topeka Shawnee athlete, and a Global Messenger for SOKS addressed the attendees at the ceremony, “Through Healthy Athletes I have received new glasses, safety glasses, had my hearing checked and received free toothbrushes in dental screenings.  Most athletes have challenges in getting basic health exams, so the Walmart grant will help me and thousands of others in Kansas.”
 “Walmart’s investing in our nonprofits’ future endeavors showcase as Walmart’s devotion to the well-being of our state,” said U. S. Senator Pat Roberts.  “These nonprofits  are a lifeline for those in need across Kansas, and we are grateful for their unwavering service and dedication to helping others.”
 For more information about the Special Olympics Healthy Communities Program contact Ochanda at ochandac@ksso.org or 913.236.9290, or www.ksso.org/healthy-communities.