Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary - provide

 verb  (~d; providing)  Etymology: Middle English, from Latin providere, literally, to see ahead, from pro- forward + videre to see — more at pro-, wit  Date: 15th century  intransitive verb  1. to take precautionary measures ~ for the common defense — U.S. Constitution  2. to make a proviso or stipulation the Constitution…~s for an elected two-chamber legislature — Current Biography  3. to make preparation to meet a need ~ for entertainment; especially to supply something for sustenance or support ~s for the poor  transitive verb  1. archaic to prepare in advance  2.  a. to supply or make available (something wanted or needed) ~d new uniforms for the band; also afford curtains ~ privacy  b. to make something available to ~ the children with free balloons  3. to have as a condition ; stipulate the contract ~s that certain deadlines will be met