PROVO, Utah – Sister Joy D. Jones, worldwide leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ children, says she is often restless with worry for the most vulnerable among us who suffer and have nowhere to turn for help. For her, this especially includes women and children who are the victims of domestic or sexual violence — a tragedy that has reportedly increased during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a video call on the morning of Friday, January 22, 2021, Sister Jones joined Elder Evan A. Schmutz of the Utah Area Presidency and Relief Society General President Sister Jean B. Bingham for a 30-minute discussion with two leaders of organizations in Utah that come to the rescue of individuals in these challenging circumstances.
Latter-day Saint Charities, the Church’s humanitarian arm, recently gave $300,000 to the Children’s Justice Center (CJC) and $250,000 to the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) to help them better serve women and children in the state.
“I know this pandemic has been particularly challenging,” Sister Jones told Rebecca Martell, director of the Utah County CJC, and Liz Owens, CEO of the YWCA. “I have had sleepless nights about those who are suffering in some way and don’t have a voice. My prayers are with you and with all those who seek after your services and your love and your care.”
