Improving the Health and Nutrition of Women and Children

Malnutrition continues to affect over 3 billion people worldwide, preventing access to a healthy diet and threatening the well-being of millions. In response to these challenges of acute and chronic malnutrition, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has dedicated significant resources and launched a bold, five-year global initiative focused on improving the health and nutrition of women and children in 12 high-need countries. This initiative places nutrition at the heart of sustainable development and reflects the Church’s deep commitment to humanitarian service.

As a convener and collaborator, the Church has taken a leadership role and united eight leading global humanitarian organizations–each contributing unique expertise–to address acute and chronic malnutrition. In June 2024, the Church donated $55.8 million to launch the initiative, followed by a second donation of $63.4 million in June 2025, building on decades of prior efforts and funding to support maternal and child health.

In just the first year, our collective efforts achieved the following:

• 21.2 million children and mothers received essential vitamins

• 1.87 million children were screened for malnutrition and treated if needed

• 1.6 million mothers were trained on best nutrition practices

• 17,000 government health workers trained in maternal and newborn care, and child nutrition

• 125 health facilities were equipped to track clinical cases of malnutrition and provide treatment

With its global reach and trusted relationships, the Church is uniquely positioned to foster collaboration among NGOs—including WFP, UNICEF, CARE International, Catholic Relief Services, Helen Keller Intl, iDE, MAP International, Save the Children, The Hunger Project, Vitamin Angels, and others— as well as national and local health authorities. Together, we are strengthening agricultural systems, healthcare infrastructure, and supply chains to ensure long-term access to nutritious food and essential health services.

This initiative reflects the Church’s unwavering dedication to uplifting communities and advancing global nutrition.