USDA oversight strengthens food aid farmers and global leadership
Food for Peace has long connected American farmers to global hunger relief efforts. For more than 70 years, the program has used U.S. grown crops to support displaced families while strengthening agricultural markets at home. Kansas wheat farmers continue to view the program as a powerful example of how food aid can serve both humanitarian and economic goals.
The program, officially known as Food for Peace or Public Law 480, was signed into law in 1954 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The idea was simple: use America’s agricultural abundance to fight hunger, promote peace, and support U.S. farmers. Wheat has remained one of the most important commodities in the program because it is shelf stable, nutritious, and widely accepted across cultures.
Food for Peace is often described as “goodwill in a bag.” U.S. labeled food aid carries a message of reliability and leadership, helping build long term relationships in regions facing crisis. This visibility also supports future demand for U.S. agricultural products.
In recent years, the amount of U.S. grown wheat used in Food for Peace declined due to policy changes that allowed more local and regional food purchases. In some cases, U.S. taxpayer dollars were used to buy foreign commodities, reducing benefits for American farmers.
A recent agreement between the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Agriculture allows USDA to manage Food for Peace. Oversight is shifting from the U.S. Agency for International Development to USDA, placing the program closer to farmers and supply chains.
“For decades, the Food for Peace program has embodied the best of American leadership — delivering life-sustaining food around the world while supporting U.S. farmers at home,” said Sam Kieffer, CEO of the National Association of Wheat Growers.
Leaders believe USDA’s experience with commodities and transportation makes it the right home for the program. When Food for Peace stays true to its mission, it strengthens U.S. agriculture, rural communities, and America’s role in addressing global food security.
“Kansas wheat farmers have championed keeping the food in U.S. food aid and international market development programs since Food for Peace began,” said Kansas Wheat CEO Justin Gilpin. “This program expands efforts of trade promotion and U.S. wheat exports and positions the U.S. as a global leader to provide food assistance to address food security needs.”
Photo Credit: usda