Catholic Relief Services to receive $235 million in food aid for Sudan and Ethiopia

The U.S. Department of Agriculture will provide up to $235 million to Catholic Relief Services to supply emergency food and nutrition assistance in Sudan and Ethiopia.

Under an agreement in principle between the USDA and Catholic Relief Services, more than 110,000 metric tons of agricultural commodities grown in the United States will be delivered to the two East African nations. The USDA stated that the assistance is authorized under Title II of the Food for Peace Act. The program utilizes the existing operational presence of Catholic Relief Services in the region, specifically through the Sudan Emergency Project and the Joint Emergency Operation in Ethiopia.

Michelle Bekkering, the USDA deputy undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs, said the department is enforcing accountability to ensure aid reaches those in need and builds self-reliance.