Mr. President:
I must express my extreme disappointment with the recent news that the United States government has seen fit to donate only $50,000 to the flood-ravaged nations of Haiti and the Dominican Republic, which were recently devastated by torrential rains and flooding. Over 1,500 people have been killed, and untold numbers of people are suffering from a dire lack of medicine, clothing and the basic necessities of life.
It is shocking that a country as wealthy and powerful as the United States is only able to donate a paltry $50,000. Even Japan, a country half a world away, has donated $100,000. How does this make the United States look on the world stage?
The Dominicans and Haitians are true neighbors of the United States, and this small donation in their time of need smacks of contempt.
I urge our government to reconsider the size of the donation and to give generously to these nations that are suffering as we speak.
Respectfully
Brian P. Stack
Mayor/New Jersey State Assemblyman, 33rd District