The foundation established by media mogul Ted Turner to support United Nations programs has given away $55 million so far, the Associated Press reports.

Turner, who founded CNN, made headline news last year when he announced the formation of the United Nations International Partnership, which would give $1 billion over 10 years.

The foundation so far has handed out $55 million to at least 30 international groups that support family planning, environmental protection, aid to the poor and women's rights efforts.

It took about six months to set up the foundation and appoint an international board of directors to oversee donations, Turner says. The foundation is now on track to boost giving to $100 million a year, the news service reports.

Turner's remarks came during the annual U.N. Association of the United States fundraising dinner in New York.

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