WFP welcomes fresh $800M U.S. funding amid rising global hunger

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has welcomed an $800 million contribution from the U.S., saying the funding will strengthen humanitarian operations as global hunger continues to rise.

The agency said the additional support comes at a critical time, with the number of people facing acute food insecurity expected to increase this year because of conflict, economic pressures and climate shocks.

How the funding will be used

The WFP said the new contribution will help expand and sustain key operations in some of the world's most vulnerable regions, including:

• Pre-positioning food supplies in areas at risk of crisis
• Expanding cash assistance programmes for affected communities
• Maintaining supply chains in conflict-affected countries such as Lebanon, Haiti and the Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Scaling up rapid response capabilities for emerging emergencies

U.S. contributions fluctuate

The U.S. remains the WFP's largest donor, although its funding has varied significantly in recent years.

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Contributions fell sharply in 2025 to around $2 billion, less than half the total provided the previous year. Overall, U.S. humanitarian funding to the United Nations also declined steeply, reflecting broader shifts in foreign aid priorities.

Despite earlier reductions, the latest pledge signals renewed support for global food assistance at a time of growing need.

Rising pressure on global aid system

The WFP has warned that demand for assistance is outpacing available resources, increasing pressure on humanitarian agencies worldwide.

With hunger levels at record highs, officials say sustained international support will be essential to prevent conditions from worsening in vulnerable regions.

The funding announcement comes alongside a separate U.S. pledge of $218 million to the UN children's agency, UNICEF, highlighting continued involvement in global humanitarian efforts.

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