Church gives aid to China
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The Church recently provided humanitarian aid to assist in relief efforts in China where flooding has caused a devastating loss of lives and property.
A $15,000 check was presented by Ann C. Santini, director of the Church International Affairs Office in Washington, D.C., to His Excellency Li Zhaoxing, ambassador of the People's Republic of China.In making the presentation in behalf of Latter-day Saints Charities, Sister Santini said, "This humanitarian assistance can in no way compensate for the devastating loss of property and lives and suffering of the people of China. I hope other organizations will join with the Church in responding to this crisis by helping the victims and their families."
The ambassador responded, "This is just another sign of our excellent friendship between China and the Church. This assistance will help many."
The flooding has led to more than 2,000 deaths and has affected over 240 million people in 28 provinces.
Ambassador Li was joined by many Chinese Embassy diplomats and staff members. The People's Daily Newspaper, Xing Hua News Agency, Central China TV, and Radio International reported the Church's assistance to an estimated 11/2-billion people living in China.
When Sister Santini was asked by reporters why the Church was giving the money, she responded, "It is our Church's belief that service is a privilege, and that we are all brothers and sisters."
The monetary assistance was unexpected by the government of China because no request for aid had been made to the Church.
