The cargo, which includes a nutritious mixture of vegetables and legumes, is intended for distribution in health and social security institutions in order to reach the most vulnerable households in the country.

In total, the assistance will cover over 33 thousand people in more than 145 health and social protection institutions, including long-term care centers for patients with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, orphanages and psychiatric institutions.

"USAID is working with our partners to provide vital food assistance to the most vulnerable segments of the Uzbek population. By addressing malnutrition and providing access to adequate, safe and nutritious foods, we not only empower people to lead healthy and productive lives, but also build a more stable and sustainable world for all," said Anjali Kaur, USAID Deputy Assistant Administrator for Asia.

Since 2010, 1,560 tons of food aid worth about $4.5 million have been delivered to Uzbekistan as part of the USAID International Food Assistance Partnership Program. It will be distributed by the American non-profit organization Resource and Policy Exchange in cooperation with the International Charitable Foundation Soglom Avlod Uchun.

The USAID International Food Assistance Partnership Program is part of the larger U.S. government Food for Peace program, which was established in 1954 by U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower. This program is an example of USAID's mission to build partnerships with other entities to reduce hunger and malnutrition and ensure that all people have adequate, safe and nutritious food.