Washington, D.C., December 21, 2024 – Despite unimaginable human suffering and needs across the globe today, the U.S. Congress has yet to meet the moment by failing to pass a robust FY25 federal budget or reauthorize the Farm Bill before the end of the year.
Whether in Haiti, Malawi, Gaza, or Honduras, people are struggling to put food on their tables, access reliable healthcare, and keep roofs over their heads – and women face the most challenges.
In response, CARE Vice President of U.S. Programs and Policy Advocacy Ritu Sharma said:
“Inaction is a choice. By failing to meet two critical year-end deadlines – finalizing an FY25 budget and passing an effective Farm Bill – millions of people facing global poverty and hunger will continue to live in uncertainty.
International assistance saves lives and represents the generosity of Americans. Doing nothing for the rest of the world is not a viable option. Now is not the time for delays and indecision.
International assistance is less than 1% of the U.S. federal budget – less than one penny on every dollar – yet this funding makes a profound difference in tackling the underlying causes of poverty helping people on the path to self-sufficiency. I urge Congress to swiftly pass a robust international assistance budget.
Meanwhile, the Farm Bill includes critical food aid programs, like Food for Peace, which helps get American-grown food to people who need it around the world, and helps people grow more food so they don’t need help in the future. I urge Congress to pass a strong, effective, bipartisan Farm Bill in 2025.”
For media inquiries, contact usa.media@care.org.