Since 1971

Ending all forms of human poverty

We are a Christian humanitarian organization working in 18 countries serving nearly 10 million people. We believe every person has inherent value and potential.

50+ years of service
18 countries
9.9M people reached
"They die one by one… we can help them one by one" — Dr. Larry Ward, Founder
About Us

For over 50 years, Food for the Hungry has been responding to human suffering and walking alongside communities to end poverty.

Our Mission

To end all forms of human poverty by walking with churches, leaders, and families in the world's hardest places.

We are driven by a holistic approach that addresses physical, mental, and spiritual needs, empowering communities to become self-sustaining.

Our History

Founded in 1971 by Dr. Larry Ward, a compassionate visionary who believed that poverty ends when we address the whole person.

Today, we operate in 18 countries across Africa, Asia, and the Americas, with a global team of over 3,000 staff and volunteers.

Our Values

  • Dignity for every person
  • Collaboration with local leaders
  • Sustainable, community-led solutions
  • Faith-inspired, need-based service

Holistic Development

We address root causes of poverty through economic, social, and spiritual programs.

Partnership

We collaborate with communities, churches, and leaders to create lasting solutions.

Sustainability

We strengthen absorptive, adaptive, and transformative capacities of communities.

Christian Values

Inspired by faith, we serve based on need, respecting culture and dignity of each person.

Our Programs

We implement integrated programs that empower communities across multiple sectors.

Food Security & Livelihoods

Providing agricultural training, seeds, tools, and market access to help families grow enough food and build sustainable incomes.

Agriculture & Income

Health & Nutrition

Reducing child stunting, improving maternal health, and promoting hygiene practices through community health education and clinics.

Child & Maternal Health

Water, Sanitation & Hygiene (WASH)

Building clean water systems, latrines, and promoting hygiene behaviors to prevent disease and improve quality of life.

Clean Water

Education & Child Development

Supporting schools, teacher training, and early childhood development programs to ensure children reach their full potential.

Education

Economic Empowerment

Savings groups, micro-loans, and vocational training that help families build assets and break the cycle of poverty.

Financial Inclusion

Spiritual & Community Support

Partnering with local churches and faith leaders to provide emotional and spiritual care, trauma healing, and community reconciliation.

Faith & Resilience

In 2024, our programs reached over 3,700 communities across 18 countries, transforming lives through integrated, community-led approaches.

Our Impact

Through measurable, sustainable change, we are making a real difference in the lives of millions.

58,242
children (0–23 mo.) with reduced stunting
6,616
children reached developmental targets
$14M+
assets created through savings & loans
3,715
communities reached with programs
92%
of families report improved food security
850+
water systems constructed or repaired

2024 Highlights

Our holistic approach helped communities build resilience against climate shocks, improved maternal and child health outcomes, and empowered over 120,000 families through savings groups. Our programs are designed to be locally owned, ensuring lasting change long after we leave.

Child Sponsorship

Over 45,000 children sponsored worldwide, receiving education, nutrition, and care.

Climate Resilience

Training in drought-resistant farming and sustainable land management.

Women's Empowerment

80% of savings group members are women, gaining financial independence and leadership.

Food for the Hungry Inc

Address: 2 N Central Ave Ste 200, Phoenix, AZ 85004
EIN: 95-2680390
Phone: 628-432-6377
Contact (Mark Viso): dbcasteel1@aol.com
Founded: 1971, Dr. Larry Ward
Christian organization serving based on need, regardless of race, creed, or nationality.