Sam Farr: “on behalf of myself, my family and the constituents of the 17th District of California, I would like to express our…”

“on behalf of myself, my family and the constituents of the 17th District of California, I would like to express our heartfelt condolences to the victims and their families of the tsunami natural disaster. As the number of victims continues to increase, America is united in mourning the staggering loss of lives-- many, many of whom are children. In the last week, the millions of people affected by the tsunami have faced terrifying obstacles. But the global community stands in solidarity with the 12 affected nations. While the United States and other governments have promised humanitarian aid, private citizens in the United States have also shown an amazing outpouring of generosity and compassion. In my own congressional district, which has experienced a number of natural disasters, a number of compassionate people are reaching out to the South Asia disaster victims. For example, the Salinas Rotary Club, along with other Rotary Clubs across the country, is organizing to supply 'Shelter Boxes' that contain basic necessities like tents and sleeping bags. Humanitarian assistance is desperately needed on an unprecedented global scale. The international community has pledged $2 billion, with a contribution of $350 million from the United States, but it is clear that more will be required of many.”