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The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has helped deliver more than 6.5 million meals to families in need nationwide as part of a massive America250 hunger-relief effort that has sent 250 truckloads of donated food to communities across all 50 states.
The nationwide initiative, launched through America250’s “America Gives” campaign and the Church’s JustServe volunteer platform, is one of the largest service projects tied to the country’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebration in 2026.
The effort reached a major milestone this month when deliveries were completed in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. In Boston, one of the nation’s most historic cities, Catholic Charities Boston on Wednesday received a fully loaded semi-truck carrying more than 37,000 pounds of donated food to be distributed to families and community organizations throughout Greater Boston.
As Americans prepare to mark the semiquincentennial of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026, organizers say the project is designed to turn the historic anniversary into an opportunity for service.
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“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.”
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.”
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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.”
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.
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.
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“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.
