The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has successfully delivered food to every U.S. state, celebrating the country’s 250th anniversary. A significant delivery to Hilo, Hawaii, on June 13, 2026, marked this achievement. Events in Hawaii and Boston, alongside volunteer work in Alaska, emphasized the milestone. On June 17, a semitruck with over 37,000 pounds of food arrived at Boston’s Catholic Charities Yawkey Center for distribution on June 20, honoring Juneteenth. This is part of America250’s “America Gives” initiative, supported by JustServe. The announcement included local leaders, volunteers, and faith organizations.
Reaching all 50 states underscores that service transcends geography and backgrounds, said Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. Scheduled by year’s end are 250 truckloads of food deliveries nationwide, with half already completed. This effort highlights the urgent need to address food insecurity, as stated by Cristiano Barbosa, an Auxiliary Bishop in Boston. The Church’s collaboration with other faith groups reflects a commitment to aiding those in need, with Elder Allen D. Haynie expressing gratitude for these partnerships.
Sister Tracy Y. Browning emphasized the importance of these deliveries for families, aligning with the Church’s mission to follow Jesus Christ’s teachings. Blaine Maxfield, from the Church’s Welfare and Self-Reliance Services, acknowledged ongoing efforts, with more deliveries planned. A similar event took place in Hilo on June 13, where community leaders expressed thanks for the Church’s food donation to be distributed island-wide. Ted Lesnett from the Hilo United Methodist Church praised the extensive effort behind the donations.
The Church’s global welfare system aids in food provision through farms and processing facilities. The Food Basket in Hawaii received and distributed the food among 10 nonprofits. Enola Kaneta from Food Basket highlighted the critical need for food aid on the island, where 42% face food insecurity. A delivery also reached Fairbanks, Alaska, on June 11, with food prepared for the community, including remote areas like Utqiagvik. Volunteers in Fairbanks sorted and packed food for distribution.
Similar initiatives reached major U.S. cities like Los Angeles and Dallas, with a 40,000-pound delivery aiding 25 Detroit congregations. The demand for food has risen by 15% to 30%, noted Forgotten Harvest. Reverend Yvette Griffin in Detroit called the deliveries a lifeline, illustrating the power of cross-faith and community collaborations in tackling hunger. As stated by Orville K. Littlejohn from the Council of Baptist Pastors of Detroit and Vicinity, the effort highlights unity and following Jesus Christ’s call to serve the community.
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