Wal-Mart is handing out money to help several programs. Thursday workers at the south-side store presented checks to five organizations.

The store gets several grant applications throughout the year. A group of employees then discuss and decide which organizations need the money the most.

Chances for Indiana Youth received $1,000. Billie Kaufman says the grant will be used for the suspension program. “Right now in Vigo County if the children are suspended for three or more days they're just at home, possibly running the streets, on suspension while parents are at work so a program like this provides them with a safe environment. It also helps them with homework and Chances for Indiana Youth staff will also be doing a substance abuse prevention program with them while they're with us.”

In addition to handing out money, the south Wal-mart also donated books to United Methodist Temple Pre-school and Hoosier Prairie Elementary.