To whom much is given, much is required
NewsoftheNorth.net
April 5, 2008
In the coming two weeks, the Appropriations Committee (which U.S. Rep. David Obey chairs) will decide how much to allocate to U.S. foreign assistance programs.
Obey should increase this funding enough to allow for the $5 billion increase in poverty-focused development assistance that is necessary for the U.S. to get back on track in fulfilling the commitments and promises we have made to achieve the Millennium Development Goals.
This is a call on Rep. Obey to do whatever necessary and make sure the funding is granted.
As grateful as I am to be represented by Congressman Dave Obey, who has long been a key leader in the fight against extreme poverty, hunger and diseases such as AIDS and malaria, I also believe more needs to be done locally, nationally and especially internationally, to help those in extreme poverty. More should be donated to the local food pantries but also to those poor countries whose children die every day for malnutrition-related problems.
I agree that $5 billion certainly sounds like a lot of money, but it amounts to about just $15 per U.S. citizen and a tiny fraction of one percent of the federal budget. The ethical thing to do is to save a child or maybe thousands of them by contributing a little more every year.
Fighting extreme poverty is one of the best ways to enhance our national security and reflect America's values around the world. The Scripture tells us that "to whom much is given, much is required." I encourage the community to talk to your representatives and make this possible. Let's do the right thing.
Peace,
JC Rodriguez
Rhinelander
