Organization established in 1961 by the United Nations to help alleviate world hunger.
The world's largest food-aid organization (providing food aid to some 75 million people annually), the WFP aims to assist the approximately 15% of the world's population that is hungry. Its Food-for-Life program aids victims of both natural and man-made disasters by collecting and transporting food to crisis areas. Contributions of commodities, cash, and services (primarily shipping) help beneficiaries to maintain balanced diets. Its Food-for-Growth programs are directed at vulnerable groups
including children, pregnant and nursing women, and the elderly
and its Food-for-Work program encourages self-reliance by providing food in return for labour. Its headquarters are in Rome.