Penitas, Texas Welcomes Walmart Supercenter

Traveling this morning to a growing community near the western part of my district.

Penitas, Texas is a small comunity with a little over a thousand people on the western edges of Hidalgo county, just 13 miles west of McAllen, Texas.

I was asked if I would on this day join Walmart employees, local dignitaries and Governor Rick Perry in the dedication of a Walmart Supercenter sure to double the population and tax base of the small town.

I am told that the new Walmart offers shoppers a layout and product assortment that is tailored to the local community. Another important benefit is that the new store will bring approximately 300 jobs to area residents as well as ongoing support to local non-profit organizations. With the high unemployment rate in Hidalgo County, these jobs will allow many families from the area to have a better standard of living. The average wage at Walmart for full-time hourly associates in Texas is approximately $11.05 per hour.



As part of Walmart's store-of-the-community program, the store was merchandised to meet the diverse needs of local customers. The store will make fresh corn and flour tortillas and chips daily. The bakery will offer fresh-baked bolillo and pandulce and the produce department will include an expanded selection of tropical fruits, fresh vegetables, chilies and spices. Customers can also pick up bulk packages of specially marinated meat, rice and beans.

In addition, the store features a La Flor de Michoacan juice bar that serves local favorites such as aquas frescas, paletas, ice cream and fruit cups.Store

As part of Walmart’s commitment to the communities in which they operate, the new store will provide $10,000 in grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation to local organizations. The La Joya School District will receive a $5,000 grant to help with its reading programs and attendance incentives. The Penitas police and fire departments are also receiving grants. The police department plans to use its grant to purchase bullet-proof vests and other needed equipment. The fire department will use its grant to upgrade its equipment.



If your interested in visiting this morning's event (scheduled for 10:30 a.m.) or want to stop by the store it is located at 1705 W. Expressway 83, approximately one mile north of the U.S. border with Mexico.

Stop by if your in town.