LDS Church Sends Humanitarian Aid to Russia

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) strive to be a giving people. Our outreach extends to those of all faiths who are in urgent need of elevation from poverty, famine, natural disasters, and education. Through its humanitarian service division, called Latter-day Saint Charities, the Church often works with local government and other agencies, such as the International Red Cross and the Catholic Relief Services. We believe in the Savior’s mission of «doing good» to all, and members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints donate tithes (ten percent of their income) and fast offerings to the building of the kingdom and to the helping of those in need globally.

For example, in 1985 when thousands were dying from famine in Africa, Church members in America fasted for two meals and contributed the money to the relief effort that they would have spent for their own food. In less than two weeks, millions of dollars were given to provide food and supplies to the starving people of Ethiopia. According to the International Red Cross, this was the largest single contribution to the famine relief effort by any organization in the world.

In 1993, the Church sent more than 16 tons of humanitarian aid supplies to Russia, the Ukraine and the Baltic States. During this same time, over 233 tons of food, mostly produced at Church farms, were sent to Kenya to feed drought victims and Somalian refugees. The Church also contributed hundreds of textbooks to China for use by that country’s university students.