Faith Group Delivers 6.5M Meals Nationwide for 250th Anniversary
A significant hunger-relief initiative spearheaded by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has successfully delivered over 6.5 million meals to families in need across all 50 United States. This extensive effort, a key component of the America250 “America Gives” campaign and facilitated through the Church’s JustServe volunteer platform, marks one of the largest service projects associated with the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026.
Nationwide Reach Achieved
The initiative reached a pivotal milestone this month with the completion of deliveries in every state, including the geographically distinct regions of Alaska and Hawaii. In Boston, a city steeped in American history, Catholic Charities Boston received a substantial donation on Wednesday. A fully loaded semi-truck delivered more than 37,000 pounds of food, destined for distribution to families and community organizations throughout the Greater Boston area.
Service as a Unifying Force
As the nation prepares to commemorate the semiquincentennial of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026, organizers emphasize that the project aims to transform this historic anniversary into a period of dedicated service. Rosie Rios, Chair of America250, highlighted the unifying potential of the celebration, stating, “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.” She expressed profound gratitude for the collaboration with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its ongoing support for this landmark event.
America250 Commissioner Cathy Gillespie underscored the vital role of faith-based organizations in national volunteerism. “More than 30% of all volunteer hours in the United States are generated by faith-based organizations,” Gillespie noted. “Service can unite us. It invites people from every background to work side by side, regardless of political or religious views.”
A Call to Unity and Gratitude
Leaders within the Church echoed these sentiments, viewing the nation’s approaching 250th birthday as a prime opportunity to unite Americans through community service and expressions of gratitude. Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints remarked, “As we mark this historic milestone, we hope to foster a spirit of unity, peacemaking, and goodwill.” He added, “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.”
Leveraging Networks for Impact
The Church utilized its extensive nationwide volunteer network, humanitarian food resources, and established distribution infrastructure to bolster the initiative. This involved forging partnerships with a diverse array of 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, affirmed that the project reflects the organization’s long-standing dedication to assisting 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 are hopeful that this widespread food donation campaign will serve as a catalyst, inspiring Americans to engage in volunteer efforts leading up to the nation’s 250th anniversary. The underlying message is to leverage service as a means of celebrating the country’s rich history while simultaneously addressing critical needs within local communities.
