Can USAID funds be used to assist in the construction of a place of worship?
Funds cannot be used to construct chapels or sanctuaries that are used by that organization as its principal place of worship. The Final Rule on Participation by Religious Organizations in USAID Programs (22 CFR Parts 202, 205, 211, and 226) provides that USAID funds can be used to assist an FBCO grant recipient in the acquisition, construction or rehabilitation of a facility, but only to the extent that those structures are used to deliver eligible services. Back to Top ^ Question 12: Can an FBO maintain its current board members and system of governance and still qualify? Answer: Yes. Religious charities need not change the way in which they select staff or board members in order to be eligible for government grants or contracts. Back to Top ^ Question 13: Must FBOs be subjected to the same performance standards and accountability measures as other organizations? Answer: Yes. According to the Final Rule, “All organizations, including religious ones, must carry out eligible activities
