Some 120 million people worldwide are displaced — a staggering reality that only refugees themselves truly comprehend. To promote understanding of their journey, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and one of its humanitarian collaborators, ShelterBox, organized a demonstration on August 3, 2024.
This event highlighted the trials and possibilities encountered by displaced individuals across the globe.
At a Salt Lake City conference for thousands of single adult Latter-day Saints ages 18 to 35, ShelterBox showcased different types of tents it provides to those affected by disasters and conflicts. Some 100 conference goers, separated into groups of six, participated in a ShelterBox “tent challenge” and assembled a tent — just as refugees learn to do in the wake of a ferocious storm or the outbreak of war.
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“We are honored to participate with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in this unique and meaningful event,” said ShelterBox USA President Kerri Murray. “The tent challenge offers an incredible opportunity for young adults to experience firsthand the challenges faced by those in need of emergency shelter. We hope to inspire participants to take action and support our mission to provide vital relief to families affected by disasters.”
Since 2017, the Church of Jesus Christ and ShelterBox have served people in more than 20 countries, including Ukraine, Yemen and the Philippines. Their latest joint effort is helping families in Grenada, on the islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique, that were affected by Hurricane Beryl. They are providing tents, shelter kits, water carriers and solar lights.
ShelterBox has helped nearly 3 million people worldwide since its founding in 2000, is rated 100% on Charity Navigator and was twice nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for its work in the world’s most dangerous conflict zones.
“We are grateful to work with organizations like ShelterBox to care for those in need around the world,” said Blaine R. Maxfield, managing director of the Church’s Welfare and Self-Reliance Services Department. “This collaboration has helped shelter thousands of people globally and aligns with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ effort to serve others as the Savior would. Service strengthens the rising generation and deepens our love for Jesus Christ.”
Young adults were also able to connect with representatives of agencies that work with refugees in Utah. These included the International Rescue Committee, Cache Valley Refugee Connection and Catholic Relief Services.
The conference featured several service opportunities as well. Young adults assembled meal kits for local children and families in need, which will be distributed by Hunger Fight. They also created mental health comfort kits, assembled fleece blankets and wrote cards of hope and healing to accompany pocket hug coins.