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	Armies of Compassion Abroad: The International Faith-Based & Community Initiative [pdf, 484kb] The International Faith-Based & Community Initiative [pdf, 1.9mb] 10/31/07 Press Release: USAID Launches e-Newsletter on International Development Opportunities White House Conference on Faith-Based and Community Initiatives

President Bush Recognizes USAID As A Leader In Faith-Based Outreach

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 10, 2006
Press Office: 202-712-4320
Public Information: 202-712-4810
www.usaid.gov

WASHINGTON, DC - President Bush addressed the Second White House National Conference on Faith-Based and Community Initiatives in Washington, D.C. During his March 9th remarks he recognized the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) for its work with faith-based organizations.

Upon introducing USAID Acting Administrator, Fred Schieck, the President stated that "...USAID must continue to reach out to faith-based programs in order to make sure that we fulfill missions around the world in a compassionate way."

In Fiscal Year 2005, USAID awarded $591 million in assistance to faith-based organizations, second only to the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS). In Fiscal Year 2004, USAID provided $521 million to faith-based organizations, ranking it third among other federal agencies. Faith-based organizations compete with other organizations for federal assistance.

Through USAID, activities by faith-based organizations include food aid, disaster relief, HIV/AIDS care and prevention and other humanitarian relief.

President Bush created the Center for Faith-Based and Community Initiatives at USAID by executive order in December 2002. The center works to reach out to faith-based and community organizations to encourage them to compete for federal funds and works within the agency to ensure a level playing field among these groups.

"Faith-based organizations provide invaluable services to people in need around the world and USAID is proud to have them as partners in this lifesaving effort," said Mr. Schieck.

The full transcript can be found on the White House Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives web site: http://www.whitehouse.gov/government/fbci/

The U.S. Agency for International Development has provided economic and humanitarian assistance worldwide for more than 40 years.

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