Expanding Horizons: The Church of Jesus Christ's Global Mission
In a significant step forward, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has recently announced an impressive increase in its humanitarian efforts aimed at improving the lives of women and children worldwide. At a gathering held on June 5, 2025, at Temple Square in Salt Lake City, Utah, Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson revealed that the Church will contribute an additional $63.4 million to its global project—doubling initial projections made in previous years. This initiative, which began in 2023 with a $55.8 million donation, aims to create a meaningful impact across various regions, ultimately transforming the lives of over 21 million women and children.
Evaluating the impact of their ongoing mission, President Johnson emphasized the power of collaboration and the synergy created through partnerships with multiple humanitarian organizations. "Collaboration remains at the heart of this initiative; we create the greatest impact through our united efforts," she stated. The latest donation comes as part of an effort that has already yielded significant results: 21.2 million children and mothers received vital vitamins, while nearly 1.87 million children were screened for malnutrition and treated accordingly.
Key Achievements in Global Health
The Church's global initiative has successfully addressed immediate health concerns. Here are notable achievements:
- - 1.6 million mothers have been educated in nutrition practices, ensuring that families can maintain healthy diets.
- - 219,000 pregnant mothers received crucial prenatal care, highlighting the focus on maternal health.
- - More than 141,000 families have benefited from seeds and training, leading to the establishment of home gardens for higher nutritional value foods.
- - With efforts to improve sanitation, 6,800 people now have better access to clean water and sanitation facilities.
- - 159 newborns received resuscitation at birth, a testament to improved clinical practices supported by the initiative.
The Church has effectively coordinated efforts with eight globally recognized nonprofits, such as CARE International, Catholic Relief Services, and Save the Children, among others. Each organization focuses on specific projects designed to bolster the health and nutrition of women and children in various countries. This structured approach not only pools resources but also enhances expertise across diverse fields.
Focus Areas of Collaborating Organizations
The collaborative effort is distributed among four groups:
1.
Nutritional Access: Led by Helen Keller Intl and iDE, initiatives aim to increase access to nutritious foods and vitamins across 12 countries, including Ghana and Nigeria.
2.
Maternal Care: CRS and The Hunger Project focus on improving maternal newborn care and sanitation in Ghana.
3.
Research and Development: Save the Children, alongside MAP International, strives to enhance maternal care and nutrition in Sierra Leone and Zambia.
4.
Agricultural Support: CARE and MAP International work together to boost medical clinics and nutrition programs in Nepal.
Moving Forward: Sharing Insights
On the day of the announcement, an expert panel was convened to discuss health and nutrition strategies. Notable figures, including Sharon Eubank from Church Humanitarian Services, highlighted the continual commitment towards addressing global health challenges. Panel discussion emphasized the importance of leveraging unique strengths from each organization to amplify results, a principle echoed by Blaine Maxfield, managing director of Welfare and Self-Reliance Services.
A Call to Action
The First Presidency's encouragement for the Relief Society to lead this initiative resonates with the belief of church members in the divine mandate to serve God's children. President Russell M. Nelson has often reminded communities of their unique ability to foster change: "I am inspired by your diligence and dynamic leadership."
As they move forward in their mission, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints continues to embody the ideals of love and service, focusing on not just improving the conditions of individuals but nurturing entire communities. To learn more about this initiative and stay updated on future progress, visit the Church's summary on caring for those in need.
In embracing these collaborative efforts, the Church aims not just to transform individual lives but to build a more nourished and healthier world, reaffirming the importance of community and faith in facing global challenges.