Bill Nelson: “Dear Senator Nelson: It is very likely that the response by the American Red Cross to back-to-back hurricanes Charley…”

“Dear Senator Nelson: It is very likely that the response by the American Red Cross to back-to-back hurricanes Charley and Frances will be the largest and costliest natural disaster humanitarian effort in the 123-year history of the American Red Cross. In order for the American Red Cross to carry out the duties delegated to it by the federal government under its Congressional Charter, I am respectfully requesting your help in securing $70 million for the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund within the Fiscal Year 2005 Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Bill (S. 2537). Because the needs of Florida residents who have suffered as a result of the two hurricanes is so immediate, Congress quickly provided FEMA with an additional $2 billion. It is critical that further assistance also be provided expeditiously.”