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SALT LAKE CITY — A $10 million donation from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will help UNICEF decrease maternal and newborn mortality around the world.
"We are pleased to work together with UNICEF as we strive to create a world where every woman and child is cherished, protected and empowered," Presiding Bishop Gérald Caussé said in a statement.
In Mozambique and the Central African Republic, UNICEF will use the funds to work with unvaccinated children. In Haiti and Mali, UNICEF will give support to hospitals and health districts where a large number of babies are dying.
"These areas of high maternal and infant mortality are in critical need of improved health infrastructure and human resources to keep mothers and children healthy and safe," a news release from the church said.
It said the programs will give mothers, children and others access to "more resilient health care services."
The Church of Jesus Christ has partnered with UNICEF for over 10 years, and the humanitarian organization's president and CEO, Michael J. Nyenhuis, said the church has "demonstrated an unwavering commitment" to the organization's mission to help children around the world.
Nyenhuis expressed gratitude for this contribution from the church.
Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson said the church's collaboration with UNICEF helps extend the ability of the church to help.
"As Latter-day Saints, it is our joyful privilege to work together in weaving a tapestry of hope and healing for all of God's children," she said.
The church spent over $1 billion in 2022 to care for people in need — supporting humanitarian projects in 190 countries. Thursday's news release said these efforts are possible through donations from members of their church and friends.
Earlier this month, the church announced a $44 million donation to address malnutrition around the world.
