More than 2,500 vulnerable residents across Accra and Kumasi have benefited from this year’s Light the World Christmas food-drive organised by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, bringing festive relief to families facing economic hardship during the yuletide season.
The initiative, held under the theme “Experience His Light – Jesus Christ is the Light of the World”, formed part of a global humanitarian programme by the Church aimed at spreading hope, compassion and joy at Christmas. Beneficiaries received packages containing essential food items such as rice, oil, spaghetti, chicken, tomatoes and other household necessities traditionally associated with Christmas celebrations.
In Accra, the food-drive was hosted at the Ga Mantse Palace in Kaneshie in partnership with the Ga Mantse Foundation, drawing together traditional leaders, religious figures, government officials, missionaries and community members. More than 1,200 families received food packages that had been prepared by young missionaries from across Africa currently training at the Missionary Training Centre in Accra.
President of the Accra Ghana Missionary Training Centre, Benoit Duquette, described the event as a reflection of the Church’s global commitment to service. “Every year at Christmas, we look for ways to bring the light of Jesus Christ into the lives of those around us, especially those who may be facing difficulties,” he said. “Our young missionaries from all over Africa have prepared over 1,200 bags of food for families in need. This is our humble way of sharing the light of Christ so that everyone feels seen, valued, and remembered during this special season.”
President Duquette also highlighted the international reach of the Light the World initiative, noting that the Church partners organisations worldwide through various giving platforms. “Light the World is a worldwide effort. The Church partners with organisations worldwide to support those in need. We hope that the spirit of giving does not end at Christmas; it is something we desire to carry throughout the entire year,” he said.
The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, commended the Church for bringing the initiative to the heart of the Ga State, describing the event as a powerful demonstration of shared values. “Today, what we have witnessed here is a picture of unity, cohesion, and shared humanity. I thank The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for bringing this initiative to the heart of the Ga State,” he said. “Your generosity and devotion to service reflect values that are central to our people. This collaboration demonstrates what is possible when we work together for the good of our communities.”
Member of Parliament for Okaikoi South, Ernest Adomako, praised the initiative as timely support for struggling households. “At a time when many families are struggling with rising living costs, this initiative is a welcome source of relief,” he said. “The partnership between the Latter-day Saints and the Ga Mantse Foundation is a model for how institutions can come together to address real needs in our communities.”
The Accra event also featured cultural performances by a Ga troupe, interfaith goodwill messages, a musical performance by gospel artiste Joe Mettle and spoken-word presentations centred on unity and service, reinforcing the communal spirit of the season.
In Kumasi, more than 1,300 residents benefited from similar food packages during a parallel event. Speaking at the launch, an Area Seventy of the Church, Elder Kofi G. Sosu, said the donations symbolised more than material assistance. “These donations are not just food; they are symbols of love, compassion, and solidarity. They are meant to bring happiness to families, ease burdens, and remind each recipient that Christ loves them personally,” he said.
Elder Sosu encouraged the public to participate in the Light the World “25 Ways in 25 Days” service calendar included in the food packages. “Each day in December offers a simple act of kindness. We invite everyone to experience His light daily through service,” he added, while also highlighting the Church’s ongoing humanitarian work in Ghana, including clean water, education and health initiatives.
Kumasi Mayor Richard Ofori Agyeman-Boadi applauded the Church’s commitment to supporting the vulnerable, saying, “Faith-based organisations have a responsibility to impact humanity positively, and this is at the heart of Christianity. I am delighted that the Church has undertaken this programme and hope they will return next December to reach even more people.”
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the support, with one recipient saying, “This food package means so much to my children and me. Things have been very difficult this year, and I was worried about how we would celebrate Christmas. Today, God has remembered us through this Church.”
Light the World is a global Christmas-focused humanitarian initiative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, encouraging individuals and communities to emulate the teachings of Jesus Christ through acts of charity, kindness and service across the world.
