Examining Government

Examining Government

HSM 210

May 27, 2012

Laura Snell

Examining Government Regulations

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ extensive welfare program is a system unlike, any other because it provides temporary relief while at the same time helping people help themselves. The fine-tuned program has been in operation for decades and is run almost entirely by volunteer labor. Although it was primarily established for members of the Church, the program also assists others who are struggling. Based on the principle of self-reliance, the Church welfare system includes canneries, farms and factories throughout the United States that provide food and commodities for those in need. In addition to the food assistance which is like going to the grocery store, recipients of the welfare program can be awarded many other tools for success. Thousands find jobs annually through its employment centers and on-the-job training at Deseret Industries stores. Thousands more add to their own home food storage to prepare for a rainy day (Mormon News Room, 2011). With the assistance of a local bishop the struggling can obtain bill payments on just about every need even when funds are gone from every other source or do not exist. The Church also sponsors humanitarian relief and development projects around the world that benefit those of other faiths. These projects include emergency relief assistance in times of disaster and programs that strengthen the self-reliance of individuals, families, and communities. Hundreds of full-time volunteers with skills and experience in education, agriculture, social work, business, and medicine serve throughout the world as part of these humanitarian projects (The Church of Jesus Christ and the Latter Day Saints, 2012).

My targeted population is homeless families. The impact that this program has affected this population is great. The LDS church in my area is a great resource for the homeless. The LDS church welfare program provides...