#United States #Salt Lake City #Humanitarian Efforts #Latter-day Saints #Camille N. Johnson

The Church of Jesus Christ Amplifies Global Initiative for Women and Children

In a compelling announcement made on June 5, 2025, at the Salt Lake Temple Square, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints revealed its plans to further its global humanitarian efforts by doubling its financial commitment for the welfare of women and children. The Church, which aims to uplift and support those in need, has pledged an additional $63.4 million to initiatives originally launched in 2023, part of an ongoing effort designed to aid over 21 million women and children globally.

During a conference attended by representatives from eight international humanitarian organizations, Church President Camille N. Johnson shared the details of this significant increase. Last year’s contribution of $55.8 million laid the groundwork for impactful projects, and it has been evident that collaboration continues to be the heart of this initiative. President Johnson emphasized, "Together, we can create a brighter and healthier tomorrow for women and children around the world."

The meeting gathered showcasing representatives from leading organizations such as CARE International, Catholic Relief Services (CRS), and Save the Children. Focused on the organization's collective mission, these representatives highlighted key achievements from 2024, marking significant advancements:

• - 21.2 million children and mothers received vitamin treatment.
• - 1.87 million children underwent screening for malnutrition with treatment provided when necessary.
• - 1.6 million mothers received training on nutritional best practices.
• - 219,000 pregnant women accessed prenatal care.
• - 141,000 families received seeds, training, and the opportunity to cultivate nutritious home gardens.
• - 41,000 individuals gained skills in improved hygiene practices.
• - 17,000 government health workers were trained to support maternal and newborn care, child nutrition, breastfeeding, and vitamin management.
• - 6,800 people benefited from enhanced water and sanitation facilities.
• - 159 newborns were resuscitated at birth.
• - 125 health facilities received training to track clinical cases of malnutrition and deliver necessary treatments.

The Church's proactive stance has positioned it as a leader in aligning with globally recognized non-profits. Four primary working groups have been established, each concentrating on specific goals to aid women and children in various nations, ensuring a targeted approach. The established groups include:

1. Helen Keller Intl, Vitamin Angels, and iDE, aiming to enhance access to nutritional foods, vitamins, and medicines across 12 countries including Bangladesh, Ghana, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
2. CRS, The Hunger Project, and MAP International, focusing on improving maternal and infant care in Ghana, alongside water and sanitation efforts.
3. Save the Children and MAP International, which are dedicated to improving maternal health and nutrition in Sierra Leone and Zambia.
4. CARE and iDE, which are enhancing agricultural practices and healthcare facilities in Nepal.

Blaine Maxfield, the Managing Director of Welfare and Self-Reliance Services, stated, "We uniquely possess the advantage of fostering collaboration among these eight organizations. By leveraging our collective strengths and resources, we significantly expand our impact. Serving the children of God worldwide is an immense privilege."

The recent announcement aligns with larger strategies that the Church aims to implement, including a series of panel discussions spearheaded by L. Todd Budge, a member of the Church's leadership, focusing on nutrition and health for women and children. The idea is to create a network of support rooted in divine principles emphasizing caring for the vulnerable.

President Russell Nelson cast a vision back in 2023, reminding women of the divine ability to effect change. He asserts that the hard work, vibrancy, and compassion for those in need inspire greatness within communities. Guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ to love God and our neighbors, the Church endeavors to maximize its outreach and advocate for those in need.

For more information about this global humanitarian effort and how the Church cares for those in need, please visit the latest summary on caring for those in need.