CRS Rallies U.S. Catholics Behind $200 Million Senate Amendment for Liberia's Reconstruction

Catholic Relief Services
Tuesday, 14 October 2003

Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is mobilizing U.S. Catholics in a final push to convince Congress to designate at least $200 million to help Liberians rebuild their war-ravaged nation and provide badly needed food, medical supplies, water and other basic needs.

"A strategic, increased investment by the United States in Liberia, where 14 years of civil war has ground to dust most assets, livelihoods and hope, can bolster the fragile ceasefire and prevent the country from slipping back into chaos and violence," said Ken Hackett, President of CRS. "Catholics in the United States represent a powerful voice; this is an opportunity for us to put our faith into action to help achieve peace and security for the most vulnerable."

At issue is a bipartisan amendment by Senators Lincoln Chafee (R-RI) and Patrick Leahy (D-VT) calling for $200 million specifically targeted to Liberia's reconstruction and emergency relief needs. The amendment will be introduced today as part of the Senate's consideration of the 2004 supplemental appropriations bill. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Walter Kansteiner said the $200 million would be needed for basic human necessities alone.

Humanitarian access in Liberia remains a critical concern for relief and development agencies such as CRS. The additional monies would enable aid agencies to make a substantial contribution to meeting the urgent needs in the country. CRS continues to provide emergency relief to Liberians in the cities of Monrovia, Buchanan and Harbel. An estimated half a million Liberians have lost their homes because of recent violence and are in dire need of food, shelter, clean drinking water, medical supplies and other relief materials.

"Passage of this amendment can help the United States fulfill its moral responsibility to ensure delivery of humanitarian aid to the people of Liberia," Hackett said.

For more information, or to contact Catholic Relief Services, see their website at: www.catholicrelief.org