The Church of Jess Christ of Latter-day Saints continues its legacy of compassion by bolstering Red Cross disaster relief and humanitarian efforts
The American Red Cross announced today a generous $1 million donation from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to aid emergency relief efforts for those affected by the devastation of Hurricane Helene.
This donation will help provide shelter, food, water, relief supplies, and emotional and mental health support to families still grappling with the unimaginable destruction. Over 2,000 trained Red Cross disaster relief volunteers are actively assisting in Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas and Tennessee, having delivered over 2.3 million meals and snacks and more than 100,000 cleaning and hygiene supplies.
“Working with the American Red Cross helps us support people impacted by these devastating hurricanes. We’re thankful for everyone who has united with us to help follow Jesus Christ’s example of serving and caring for those in need,” said Cameron Hatch, Southeast Area Welfare and Self-Reliance Manager.
Hurricane Helene’s Devastating Impact
Hurricane Helene made its initial landfall along the Gulf Coast of Florida about three weeks ago as a Category 4 storm, bringing heavy rains and causing severe devastation in the mountainous region between western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. Floodwaters washed away homes and roads, leaving entire communities isolated for days. With over 220 deaths and hundreds still unaccounted for, Hurricane Helene is one of the deadliest storms in U.S. history.
Red Cross volunteers continue to work, providing essential relief and comfort to those still dealing with the storm’s aftermath. Dozens of emergency response vehicles are distributing meals, water and supplies to those without electricity as they struggle to clean up their homes. More than 20 Utah Red Cross volunteers have been deployed to help.
“This extraordinary donation from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints arrives at a critical time,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “The Red Cross can support so many families affected by the devastation of Hurricane Helene thanks to the generosity of long-time partners like The Church of Jesus Christ.”
Commitment to Humanitarian Causes
This donation continues a tradition of significant financial support from the Church to Red Cross initiatives. Earlier this year, the Church donated $7.35 million to support vital services, including disaster response, blood donation efforts, and outreach programs for underserved communities. The Church also stands as the largest single contributor to Red Cross blood drives, with members annually donating approximately 97,000 units of blood across thousands of drives.
In 2023, the Church contributed $1 million toward wildfire relief efforts in Maui. An $8.7 million donation earlier that year funded the purchase of Red Cross bloodmobiles and supported programs for cancer and sickle cell disease patients. These contributions are crucial for providing essential services such as shelter, food, and emotional support. The Church also offers in-kind donations, including disaster relief kits with vital hygiene items, to those impacted by disasters. In 2023 alone, the Church donated more than $1.3 billion to charitable causes worldwide, aiding those in need.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visitredcross.orgor CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
