Washington, D.C. - As part of the U.S. government's response to the flooding in Pakistan, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is providing an additional $25 million to assist Pakistanis in need. This includes a $15 million contribution to the U.N. World Food Program - primarily for the local and regional purchase of food aid and the dispatch of food from USAID's prepositioning site - and $10 million to expand existing emergency programs and aid programs that address needs identified by the Government of Pakistan.

"The need for response to this disaster is urgent, and even as we triple our financial commitment we remain flexible so we can meet new needs as they arise," said USAID Administrator Dr. Rajiv Shah. "We remain committed to working in support of the Government of Pakistan to identify gaps in assistance where USAID can be of assistance."

Today's announced funding is in addition to the $10 million already committed by USAID in support of humanitarian relief efforts as a result of the ongoing flooding through much of Pakistan. These funds, in close coordination with Pakistan's National Disaster Management Authority, are being disbursed through grants to local NGOs providing emergency relief supplies, increasing access to clean water, and carrying out preventive healthcare to curb potential outbreaks of waterborne illness. With the request of the Government of Pakistan, over 66,000 pounds of emergency food and other supplies have been delivered to remote areas, and the United States has also provided a total of 436,000 halal meals to flood victims. Twelve pre-fabricated steel bridges have also been made available as temporary replacements for highway bridges damaged by flooding in Peshawar and Kurram Agency.

For individuals and organizations who wish to help those affected by the floods, USAID encourages cash donations be made to humanitarian organizations already working in the affected areas. Nothing will get there faster or help more. Working with mGive, Americans are contributing to Pakistan flood relief by texting the word "SWAT" to 50555. Each text will result in a donation of $10 to the UNHCR's Pakistan Flood Relief Effort, helping to provide emergency aid to displaced families.

For more information about USAID, please visit: www.usaid.gov