Under
the pilot Global Food for Education Initiative, USDA donated surplus U.S.
agricultural commodities for use in school feeding and pre-school
nutrition programs in developing countries. These school feeding
programs help assure that children attend and remain in school,
improve childhood development and achievement, and thereby contribute
to more self-reliant, productive societies. The initiative was
announced in July 2000, building on ideas promoted by Ambassador
George McGovern and former Senator Bob Dole. The pilot initiative was implemented in fiscal years 2001 and 2002, with completion expected in fiscal year 2003. Under the pilot, USDA’s Commodity Credit Corporation committed $300 million for U.S. commodities, transportation, and administrative expenses. Commodities are being donated under the authority of the Section 416(b) program. The USDA-approved projects are being conducted through the United Nations World Food Program, private voluntary organizations, and eligible foreign governments. The new McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program replaces the pilot Global Food for Education Initiative. |
||
|