Humanitarian Center

The Humanitarian Center was established in 1991 by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While the center has evolved over time, its principles remain the same: care for those in need, foster self-reliance, and encourage service.

Each year, the center hires hundreds of new employees to undergo job training, which includes opportunities to learn skills such as production, forklift operation, food service, custodial and maintenance work. Associates sort and process surplus donations from Deseret Industries thrift stores, which are then distributed for humanitarian aid, sold to other recycling buyers, or recycled when unusable in an effort to care for the earth.

The job training program helps prepare associates for employment while allowing them to provide for themselves and their families. Many associates, often people who are seeking refuge from other countries, participate in English classes. As part of the paid job training, the center prepares and ships millions of items to individuals and communities in need around the world. These items include emergency relief supplies, hygiene kits, school supplies, quilts, and used clothing.

The work done at the Humanitarian Center is part of the larger effort to observe the second great commandment taught by Jesus Christ: “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself” (Matthew 22:39).

Learn more about how the Church cares for those in need.