"Eliminating malnutrition for women and children living in extreme poverty isn't just about providing food. It is about providing the nourishment that supports physical and mental development for people at risk for life-long repercussions of undernourishment," said Jay Naidoo, Chairperson, GAIN.  "GAIN is committed to bringing the distinct resources to the table to enable the game-changing health and economic benefits of nutrition to be realized around the world."

Specifically, GAIN believes there are four key priorities to ensure success of the 1,000 Days initiative:

The development of private sector partnerships to improve food access and food quality.Facilitating and enabling collaboration between policy makers and leaders in agriculture, nutrition and health to accelerate key health outcomes through nutrition interventionernment support and international aid to create sustainable markets for high quality, nutrient-rich foods that are affordable and accessible around the world.  Education of communities about nutrition practices, with an emphasis on maternal and childhood nutrition intervention including exclusive breastfeeding.

For further information on USAID programs, call Kimberly Flowers: kiflowersusaid or 202-580-5106. For more information on GAIN or to attend the 1000 Days event as a member of the media, please contact Chrissie Marra or Farrah Hamid of MWW Group at 212-704-9727.

SOURCE U.S. Agency for International Development