The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) joins the world in commemorating International Day of Families. Today is a reminder that a strong family base is essential for stable and healthy societies to grow and flourish.

For families in developing countries, the impacts of COVID-19 are disastrous. Over the past two months, USAID has been working with interagency partners across the U.S. Government to mobilize resources and protect the most-vulnerable families from the ravages of COVID-19.

The U.S. Government is committed to strengthening the capacities of families who love and care for children and adolescents. We are helping other countries advance on their Journey to Self-Reliance by eliminating extreme poverty, boosting economic growth, and promoting a peaceful society. We are redoubling our efforts to invest in the development, care, dignity, and safety of the world's most-vulnerable children and their families.

USAID's development programs help build stable, resilient, and prosperous families and communities, by providing access to high-quality food, health care, and basic education to families around the world. These investments help children and adolescents develop the knowledge and skills needed to secure their own livelihoods and help secure a better future. USAID's humanitarian assistance also supports families - those displaced by natural disasters and conflict - by providing life-saving assistance and preserving human dignity.

Today, we celebrate families and recognize the important work of USAID and our implementing partners to support their well-being. Families are the foundation of strong communities and secure societies, and we're proud to invest in strong families around the world.