Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints delivers more than 34,000 pounds of food to Lowcountry Food Bank
October 28, 2026
As part of a nationwide effort to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – Charleston delivered more than 34,000 pounds of food on Thursday, October 22 to Lowcountry Food Bank to distribute to neighbors the organization serves who experience food insecurity.
The donated food will be distributed through Lowcountry Food Bank’s network of partner agencies and food pantries, helping neighbors access the food they need across the 10 coastal counties the organization serves.
From left: Nick Osborne, Lowcountry Food Bank President and CEO; Mayor Christie Rainwater, Hanahan, SC; Tom Fernandez, South Carolina Senator; Reid Smith, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints South Carolina State President; Guests and Church officials.
As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary in 2026, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has joined America250’s nationwide “America Gives” initiative through a major effort to help feed families across the country. The Church has committed to delivering 250 truckloads of food to food banks and community organizations in all 50 states, representing millions of meals.
“Part of our mission is to unite our community, said Nick Osborne, Lowcountry Food Bank President and CEO, at the event. “Community partners like The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are essential to our mission. Their generosity strengthens our ability to serve our neighbors, and their commitment reminds us what is possible when a community comes together for a common purpose.”
“Getting food from a truck to neighbors’ homes takes willing hands and a lot of planning from these organizations’ staff and volunteers,” said Senator Tom Fernandez. “I personally want to thank the Church and Lowcountry Food Bank for the work they do every day for our community.” Referencing the Golden Rule, he added, “We serve our fellow man with care and respect, the same we would want for ourselves.”
Community and faith leaders gathered at Lowcountry Food Bank to recognize the donation and the importance of working together to help neighbors access nutritious food. Speakers included Reid Smith, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints South Carolina State President; David Goltra, Charleston Stake Communication Director for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; Nick Osborne, President and CEO of Lowcountry Food Bank; Hanahan Mayor Christie Rainwater; South Carolina Senator Tom Fernandez; and Anthony Olalere of The Redeemed Christian Church of God in Summerville.
The Church has a history of supporting Lowcountry Food Bank and helping address hunger nationwide. From its early bishops’ storehouses to today’s global humanitarian programs, the Church has provided food and other assistance while working with community organizations to serve people in need. In 2025 alone, the Church’s storehouses donated more than 37 million pounds of food, equivalent to nearly 31 million meals, to humanitarian organizations and food banks.
About The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Charleston
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Charleston, South Carolina, is a diverse, welcoming community of believers dedicated to following the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. Operating local congregations (wards) throughout the Lowcountry—including locations in Charleston (West Ashley), North Charleston, and and Mount Pleasant. The Church provides weekly worship services, youth programs, and robust family resources. Local members are committed to strengthening families, fostering neighborly kindness, and actively serving the historical Charleston community. For more information regarding local worship schedules and beliefs, please visit ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
About Lowcountry Food Bank: Feed. Advocate. Empower.
The Lowcountry Food Bank serves the 10 coastal counties of South Carolina and distributed more than 42 million pounds of food in 2025. Lowcountry Food Bank works to unite our community in pursuit of equitable access to food by distributing food to more than 240 partner agencies including on-site meal programs, homeless shelters and emergency food pantries. Lowcountry Food Bank advocates on behalf of those who experience hunger and helps empower people to make healthy and nutritious food choices. For more information, visit the Lowcountry Food Bank website.
