RAMALLAH, January 31, 2016 (WAFA) – The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) West Bank and Gaza Mission announced on Sunday a $12 million contribution to the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) for food assistance in the West Bank and Gaza.

This contribution will provide 10,200 metric tons of food assistance to 95,000 food insecure people in Gaza and an additional 41,500 food insecure people in the West Bank, USAID said in a  statement. 

This money will also support the West Bank electronic voucher program benefiting 50,000 vulnerable Palestinians.  The electronic food voucher program in the West Bank is an innovative way to provide food assistance while supporting the development of small businesses and the local economy through the procurement of locally produced foods.

 "This commitment highlights the continued support of the American people to those in need" said Dave Harden, USAID West Bank and Gaza Mission Director. "In addition the electronic food voucher program enables recipients to shop with dignity and also helps boost the local economy."

USAID is a major provider of food assistance to needy families in the West Bank and Gaza.  In 2015 alone, USAID in partnerships with the World Food Program helped more than 300,000 of the most vulnerable and food-insecure individuals meet their basic food needs.

Starting in 2011, USAID began supporting the World Food Program‘s electronic voucher program, implemented by the U.S. NGO Global Communities and has invested more than $27 million in the local economy through the electronic voucher program in the West Bank.

"Food assistance remains indispensable for the impoverished population of Gaza and the West Bank that endures increasing economic hardships, recurring conflicts, and the absence of peace," said Daniela Owen, WFP Representative and Country Director.

M.N./T.R.