Abu Dhabi // The Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Charity foundation has launched a Ramadan food programme that is expected to benefit more than 44,000 families across the UAE. Mohammed Haji Khoury, the executive director of the Khalifa Foundation, and Hussein Al Sheikh, the executive director of social welfare at the Ministry of Social Affairs, announced the project at a joint press conference today. Mr Khoury said "This year's Ramadan food aid programme is the largest one since the creation of the country... it is also the first initiative of its kind in the region to support beneficiary families during the holy month of Ramadan. The food aid programme is part of the Foundation's local humanitarian strategy. It will be executed before the advent of the fasting month." He added that the provisions would be distributed in coordination with the ministry of social affairs ensuring swift delivery to those in need. Food items will be distributed throughout 26 centres nationwide. * WAM