The Church’s humanitarian efforts in the Pacific are often tied to the many natural disasters that affect the area, including volcanoes, cyclones, and flooding. The Church also collaborates with like-minded organizations in the Pacific to address other regional needs, such as improving child nutrition and providing greater access to clean water.
Emergency Response
Many residents on the North Island of New Zealand are still feeling the impact of Cyclone Gabrielle, which devastated the island in 2023. To alleviate challenges resulting from this disaster, the Church helped rebuild homes in the heavily impacted community of Wairoa.
In Negros Occidental, Philippines, the Church supplied food packs, drinking water, bedding, and hygiene kits to more than 80 families evacuated after the eruption of the Kanlaon Volcano.
Child Nutrition
The Church prioritizes improving child nutrition across the globe so children can reach their full potential mentally, physically, and spiritually. This effort is especially important in the Philippines, where many local contributions support this cause. In addition to the Church’s local child nutrition initiatives focused on helping malnourished children within the Church, the Church collaborated with Tonga’s education ministry to provide breakfast for thousands of school-aged children at risk of malnutrition in 168 schools.
Clean Water
The Church contributed several million dollars for humanitarian projects in the Pacific, enabling UNICEF to implement water, sanitation, and hygiene programs in Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, and Papua New Guinea. Additionally, the Church helped fund a project by WaterAid to improve water facilities at schools in Papua New Guinea.
Reaching Developmental Milestones
In Pampanga, Philippines, then-four-year-old Amara was screened during a local child nutrition program run by the Church. The results of the assessment indicated that Amara suffered from malnutrition. She was treated using micronutrient powder, vitamin supplements, and medication. Her diet was also fortified with foods that addressed her nutritional deficiencies. Additionally, Amara’s parents were educated on proper nutrition, hygiene practices, and childcare, and the family received better access to clean water and health units.
Through these efforts, Amara’s health gradually improved. She is now in the normal weight category for her age and has reached significant developmental milestones.
What Can I Do?
- Look for local opportunities to care for people in need.
- Help your children eat a nutritious breakfast.
- Teach children how to wash their hands.
Learn More About the Church’s Efforts in the Pacific Region in 2024
What Has the Church Done to Respond to Emergency Situations?
In 2024, many natural disasters and emergency situations affected areas around the world. As part of an effort to care for those in need, the Church provided emergency relief through volunteer efforts, donations, and collaborations with other organizations. Learn more about the Church’s emergency relief efforts by clicking the button below.