The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has played a pivotal role in providing over 6.5 million meals to families in need across the United States. This commendable feat is part of the expansive America250 hunger-relief initiative, which has successfully dispatched 250 truckloads of donated food to communities in every state.
Launched under the banner of America250’s “America Gives” campaign, this nationwide effort is supported by the Church’s JustServe volunteer platform. It represents one of the most significant service projects related to the upcoming celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary, set to occur in 2026.
This month, the initiative reached a significant milestone by completing food deliveries in all 50 states, including the distant regions of Alaska and Hawaii. In Boston, a city steeped in American history, Catholic Charities Boston received a fully loaded semi-truck on Wednesday. This vehicle carried an impressive 37,000 pounds of food, which will be distributed to families and various community organizations throughout Greater Boston.
As the United States gears up to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026, project organizers aim to transform this historic milestone into a chance for national service and unity.
Notably, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ JustServe platform has been instrumental in organizing one of the largest service endeavors tied to the semiquincentennial celebrations, underscoring the power of community engagement and volunteerism.
“America’s 250th celebration is a unifying moment for our country, and the Church’s efforts are a beautiful example of the American spirit — neighbor caring for neighbor in service and generosity,” America250 Chair Rosie Rios said. “We are immensely grateful for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ collaboration and its continued support for this historic celebration.”
A delivery of food and other items arrives in Boston. (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)
America250 Commissioner Cathy Gillespie pointed to the role faith-based groups play in volunteer service across the country.
“More than 30% of all volunteer hours in the United States are generated by faith-based organizations,” Gillespie said. “Service can unite us. It invites people from every background to work side by side, regardless of political or religious views.”
A fully loaded semi-truck carrying more than 37,000 pounds of donated food was being distributed to families and community organizations throughout Greater Boston. (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)
Church leaders echoed that message, describing the nation’s upcoming 250th birthday as an opportunity to bring Americans together through community service and gratitude.
“As we mark this historic milestone, we hope to foster a spirit of unity, peacemaking, and goodwill,” said Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “The anniversary is an opportunity for all to come together, serve together, and express gratitude for the freedoms that have allowed all faiths — including ours — to flourish.”
Volunteers in Hawaii are seen organizing a food delivery. The food-relief effort reached all 50 states, including Hawaii and Alaska. (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)
The Church leveraged its nationwide volunteer network, humanitarian food resources and established distribution infrastructure to support the initiative, which involved partnerships with nonprofits, faith groups, community organizations and local leaders across the country.
Volunteers are seen organizing a food delivery in Alaska. The massive food-relief effort reached all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)
Blaine Maxfield, managing director of the Church’s Welfare and Self-Reliance Services department, said the project reflects the Church’s longstanding commitment to helping individuals and families in need.
“Following the example of Jesus Christ, we strive to love our neighbor,” Maxfield said. “Each of us can have an impact in our own communities through service.”
Organizers hope the food donation campaign will inspire Americans to participate in volunteer efforts leading up to the nation’s 250th anniversary, using service to celebrate the country’s history while meeting needs in their own communities.
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