WHAT IS THE FOREIGN ASSISTANCE BUDGET?
An allocation of aid given by the United States to other countries to support global peace, security, and development efforts, and provide humanitarian relief during times of crisis
Why is it important?
Apart from being a moral obligation, the FAB is a necessary strategic and economic tactic in maintaining US national security.
How much of our budget goes towards foreign assistance?
The FAB makes up less than 1% of the Federal Budget
Why are we advocating for it?
The proposed federal budget for FY18 (October 2017-September 2018) cuts the overseas development assistance portion of the FAB by 1/3. The overseas development assistance includes programs that:
- Provide clean water
- Provide education for children
- Help mothers and children (REACH Act)
- Distribute vaccines
- Fund humanitarian and disaster relief responses, and more.
These U.S. foreign assistance programs promote stability, provide communities with opportunities for livelihood to build self-reliance and reduce the need for U.S. assistance. They also bolster strategic partners and alliances, help combat extremism and instability, and improve governance.
They respond to global challenges that often have greater consequences if we fail to act
The leadership of the United States government has long been bipartisan on this issue, and it is critical that it continue through strong funding for the Foreign Assistance Budget.
Show your support by contacting Congress!