The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints continues to provide relief amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Church is now distributing cash and commodities in response to an unprecedented number of humanitarian requests around the world.
To date, Latter-day Saint Charities has initiated 280 COVID-19 relief projects in over 80 countries. Within the United States, 15 truckloads of commodities from the Church’s network of bishops’ storehouses are being delivered each week to food banks and other charitable organizations across the country.
$5.5 million of cash donations is also being provided to the following key relief agencies in the U.S.:
- Convoy of Hope (Springfield, Missouri)
They will use the Church’s donation to distribute food to those in need, largely in the Midwest.
“This generous gift came at a pivotal time. Convoy of Hope is well on its way to reaching the goal of delivering 10 million meals to those hit hardest by the coronavirus.” —Hal Donaldson, CEO of Convoy of Hope
Convoy of Hope September 2017
The Church has had a long-standing partnership with Convoy of Hope. In this photo, Convoy of Hope volunteers provide water (purchased by the Church) to flood victims in Victoria, Texas, after Hurricane Harvey in September 2017. 2020 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.
- Feeding America (Chicago, Illinois)
This nationwide network of food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters will use this money to assist in the country’s hardest-hit areas.
“We are incredibly thankful for the support of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during this time of increased need. Their donation will help provide more meals and other essential resources to people who need them most.” —Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America.
- Partnership With Native Americans (Addison, Texas)
This organization will use the Church’s donation to purchase food, water and personal health products for reservations, mostly throughout the western U.S.
“Our motto has always been 'Don’t leave Native Americans behind' and that's more critical now than ever. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is honoring this and helping us continue our vital deliveries to the reservations in need.” —Joshua Arce, president and CEO of Partnership With Native Americans
- The Salvation Army (Alexandria, Virginia)
They will use the Church’s donation to provide food, personal protective equipment and hygiene items in locations throughout the U.S.
“Across America, millions are worried about where their next meal will come from. They need food now. So to help meet that need, The Salvation Army is proud to partner with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Working together, we’re determined to make a difference for anyone and everyone affected by this pandemic.” —Commissioner Kenneth G. Hodder, commander of the USA Western Territory.
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Recipients receive produce and hygiene kits at a Salvation Army Corps Community Center, in partnership with an area food bank, Huntington Park, California, March 20, 2020.Courtesy of Salvation Army
- United Way (Alexandria, Virginia)
These funds will provide relief to many communities in the U.S.
“United Way extends our deepest gratitude for the generosity and compassion of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The donation of $1 million to the United Way Community Response and Recovery Fund will provide critical support to communities across the U.S. and to the 211 teams who are working around the clock to help our most vulnerable populations find the help they need in the face of this pandemic.” —Suzanne McCormick, U.S. President, United Way Worldwide
“We’re deeply concerned about those we consider to be our brothers and sisters who are suffering because of COVID-19,” said Bishop Gérald Caussé, presiding bishop of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “We want to help and know we can rely on these trusted partners, who are already doing so much good, to reach those who are in greatest need.”
In addition to these donations, the presiding bishop said the Church will provide volunteers via JustServe to coordinate local service opportunities. “Our church members, who can be found in every community, are also willing to lend a hand through volunteer service projects,” Bishop Caussé said.