Why It Matters

Humanitarian action can mean the difference between life and death for thousands of people each year.  It prepares communities to respond to disasters, it saves lives, it protects hard-won development gains, and it helps people get back on their feet after a crisis strikes. 

It is a core American value to help those most in need.  USAID proudly assumes the role of working with and for disaster-affected people on behalf of the U.S. Government and the American people.  Every day, USAID makes life better for those in the midst of crisis.  Whether we are rescuing a teenager from a collapsed building in Haiti, caring for a malnourished child in Somalia, or giving medical care to a child injured by conflict in Syria, USAID’s crisis response efforts represent the best of American generosity.