Food for the Poor

Food For The Poor is the largest international relief organization in the United States, according to the Chronicle of Philanthropy; the organization serves the poorest of the poor in 17 countries throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. Founded in 1982, Food For The Poor is an interdenominational ministry that not only provides food for the starving, but also builds small houses for the destitute, digs water wells for parched villagers, provides medicine and medical equipment for the sick and elderly, supports orphanages and education for children, and much more. Since its inception, Food For The Poor has distributed more than 43,900 tractor-trailer loads of aid and has built more than 50,000 homes for the destitute. Total support received in 2008 was more than $1.5 billion, with fundraising and administrative costs comprising only 2.26% of expenses - the organization’s lowest ratio ever. More than 96% of all donations received went directly to programs that benefit the poor. In 2007, Forbes magazine rated Food For The Poor as having an efficiency level of 97% in charitable commitment and 98% in fundraising efficiency. In addition, Food For The Poor received the highest possible ratings from industry observers: four stars from Charity Navigator and five stars from Ministry Watch. Food For The Poor is also proud to meet the extensive standards of America’s most experienced charity evaluator, the Better Business Bureau.