Abstract: In response to a Congressional call for action, Federal initiatives to improve and expand research, extension and higher education programs in human nutrition, home economics and family life are proposed. Federal commitments to strong human resources-oriented programs in agriculture focus on 4 high-priority problems: family economic stability and security; energy and environment; food, nutrition and health; and family strengths and social environment. An implementation plan for each proposal suggests research and higher education activities, integration arrangements, and 2-, 5- and 10- year targets. Proposed plans are to be conducted cooperatively by the USDA, land-grant universities, and cooperative extension services. The relationship between family needs and the foodand agricultural system must be closely examined. Strong research and educational programs need Federal leadership, financial support and concerted effort in order to solve theproblems of families in the 1980's.