President George W. Bush created offices for Faith-Based and Community Initiatives within the White House and 11 Federal agencies to leverage the essential work of faith-based and community organizations in a "determined attack on need."
President Bush established the Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) by executive order on December 12, 2002. USDA has a long history of working with faith-based and community organizations to help those in need. For example, USDA works with faith-based and community groups to provide vital assistance through our domestic food and nutrition programs, rural development opportunities, natural resources and conservation programs, and internal food aid programs.
"The USDA has a long history of work with faith-based and community groups to help those in need. These organizations play a vital role in fighting hunger because they know the clients, know neighborhoods, and know the needs." - Secretary of Agriculture Ed Schafer