Latter-day Saints donate milk to HIM

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is making large milk donations in DFW with a truck delivering 2,160 cases of 2 percent milk Thursday at Harvesting in Mansfield Food Bank.

The donation originates from the church's dairy operations in Utah. Milk is a frequently requested and often difficult-to-acquire item at food banks, according to Feeding America.

Milk is the top food source for calcium, vitamin D and potassium, but for many kids and families in need, even basic staples like milk and the critical nutrients it provides are missing.

“The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is so thankful to partner with HIM Food Bank because of their dedication to providing food staples to so many in their immediate area,” said Janae Baird, Fort Worth communications director.  

“They are also a trusted organization to send surplus food to because they partner with many other local food pantries,” Baird said. “​​If they have surplus milk, they are able to distribute it quickly, and effectively to make sure it makes it out to many locations to those in need in Mansfield, and the surrounding communities as well.”

The church has a long-running partnership with Harvesting in Mansfield, providing volunteers and donations as needed.

Both HIM and the church share the goal of alleviating hunger and providing assistance to those in need, with a focus on treating individuals with dignity and respect

One of the regional humanitarian priorities for the church is to help meet the basic needs of the hungry, with Texas leading the nation now in food insecurity.

DFW itself ranks third among U.S. metro areas for the highest number of people facing hunger, according to Feeding America.

HIM Food Bank provides vital resources to children, families and seniors. Their mission is to help individuals move from food insecurity to stability, providing groceries, hygiene supplies, and support. Despite rising food costs and inflation, they responded to a 35 percent increase in families seeking assistance. HIM relies on donations from community partners and volunteers to keep up with demand.