Refugees at the Krakovets Polish border crossing on March 4, 2022. (Photo: courtesy of WFP/Marco Frattini)
SALT LAKE CITY — Officials with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced they have given $4 million to help refugees in Europe.
According to a press release, the Church has given $2 million to the United Nations Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and $2 million to the World Food Programme (WFP).
The donation from the Church will assist the WFP feed 11,000 people for four months.
Anne-Marie Grey, CEO of USA for UNHCR said, “As the world watches the heartbreaking events in Ukraine unfold, I am still able to find moments of hope because dedicated organizations like Latter-day Saint Charities chose to step up and support refugees during their greatest time of need. This emergency gift ensures that families fleeing the horrific violence in Ukraine will continue to receive the care and shelter they need after harrowing journeys. This gift is so much more than just a fleece blanket or warm place to sleep for a refugee family. It shows families fleeing that there is still a compassionate global community ready to help.”
An estimated 40,000 displaced families will benefit from the Church’s help.
Lacey Stone, UNHCR’s director of private sector engagement and partnerships in the United States, explained that the gift is being used immediately for core relief items such as blankets, solar lanterns, tents and shelters.
Stone said, “This is going to go to those in need on the ground in Ukraine and neighboring countries right away. Latter-day Saint Charities has been providing relief and comfort to refugees for decades. And we just want to say how grateful and appreciative we are.”
Since 1991, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees have worked together.
The Church and WFP have teamed up to feed the hungry around the world for the past eight years.
will@cvradio.com