Wal-Mart superstore manager Charlie Rogers presents Coventry Superintendent Kenneth DiPietro and Knotty Oak’s Social Studies curriculum coordinator Charles Blanchete a check for $5,000 during the store’s grand opening preview.

COVENTRY - Some people go to stores like Wal-Mart to save money. But last night, public officials and others went there to receive it.
During a preview for the grand opening of the Coventry Wal-Mart Supercenter in the massive Centre of New England mixed development, the store announced $16,750 in community grants. That money includes funds for neighborhood organizations, and $5,000 for the Coventry Public School System.
"The generous donation from Wal-Mart will be used for a student-led initiative to eliminate vandalism known as 'S.A.V.E.'-Students Against Vandalism Everywhere," said Superintendent of Coventry Public Schools Kenneth DiPietro.
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"Wal-Mart has a long-standing relationship with Coventry schools. They support our schools with funding for special projects as well as the Teacher of the Year schools. We appreciate and value our partnership with a community leader like Wal-Mart."
The store's manager, Charles Rogers, said the company's employees appreciate its philanthropist.
"Our associates are very proud that they work for a company that provides financial assistance to organizations right here in Coventry," said Rogers. "Donations will be distributed to community groups that truly make a difference in the lives and well being of people in our community."
The grand opening will be held today at 8 a.m. Rogers said the 209,018-square foot store features 36 general merchandise departments, including sections for organic foods, jewelry, lawn and garden items, health and beauty aids, apparel and accessories. There will also be a Tire and Lube Express, a pharmacy, a one-hour photo lab, a Regal Nails salon, a SmartStyle hair salon and a Subway restaurant. The Wal-Mart Supercenter the only one of its kind in Rhode Island.
"This is the best thing they could have done," said Coventry resident Stephen Ferreira, who was at last night's preview event. "It's a lot cheaper in prices. You just can't go wrong. Now, everything's all in one. You can do your clothes shopping, your food shopping, everything."
Major Richard Schmitter of the Coventry Police said the $3,500 his department will receive will go to "helping keep our community safe," while Hopkins Hill Fire Chief Frank Brown said the $3,500 donated to the fire department will "enhance firefighter safety and training."
Upon opening, the new store plans to employ more than 450 people, according to the company. Rogers said the new location is looking to add another 100 to 150 employees over the next few months.
"We know this community welcomes not only the Wal-Mart shopping experience, but the good jobs, benefits and great career opportunities at Wal-Mart they have heard about," he said.