The official designation and brand for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints humanitarian activities is now Latter-day Saint Charities (formerly known as LDS Charities). This change reminds the world that Latter-day Saint Charities is made possible by generous donations from Latter-day Saints and friends of the Church who want to create positive change in the world. The adjustment also reflects the correct name of members of the restored Church of Jesus Christ and their commitment to follow Him.
The Church’s humanitarian work officially began in 1985 when President Ezra Taft Benson called for a special fast to collect funds for a devastating famine in Ethiopia. Since then, Latter-day Saint Charities has helped millions of people in 195 countries.
LDS Family Services Is Now Family Services
LDS Family Services, which provides emotional and behavioral health support to strengthen individuals, families and couples, has been renamed The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—Family Services (Family Services). Counselors with Family Services also provide consultation services to help Church leaders better understand the needs and challenges of those they serve and to determine what resources and services are available.
Around the world, there are 430 Family Services counselors and more than 3,700 Family Services Church-service missionaries working in 114 offices in 17 different countries.