Agency for International Development

The Agency for International Development (AID) is the primary vehicle for United States economic and humanitarian assistance to less developed countries. AID carries on functional development assistance programs in food production, population planning, health, education, and other areas of economic development in countries throughout the Near East, Asia, Latin America, and Africa. AID also supports the efforts of several international organizations, such as the United Nations Development Program, in these areas. In addition, AID carries on regional and interregional programs to supplement its efforts in specific countries. Under an interagency agreement with the Department of Agriculture, AID helps coordinate and administer Public Law 480 (“Food for Peace”) assistance to underdeveloped countries (see Public Law 480 Programs section).