Robert Smith: “I rise today to submit S. Con. Res. 30, in order to recognize the sacrifice and dedication of members of America's…”

“I rise today to submit S. Con. Res. 30, in order to recognize the sacrifice and dedication of members of America's non-governmental organizations and private volunteer organizations throughout their history and specifically in answer to their courageous response to recent disasters in Central America and Kosovo. I am pleased to be joined by Senators Wellstone, Thomas, Sarbanes and Brownback as original cosponsors. While much time on the Senate floor has been devoted to America's response to the natural disaster wrought by Hurricane Mitch in Central America and the human disaster wrought by the horrifying aggression in the Balkans, little has been devoted to those organizations conducting humanitarian relief efforts in those areas. I am proud to note that several Oregon humanitarian organizations have been on the front lines in both Central America and the Balkans-- particularly in Kosovo. Mercy Corps International based in Portland, Oregon, is one of the largest humanitarian agencies helping Kosovar Albanian refugees and first began work in that area in 1993. Over the past six years, the agency has provided more than $30 million in relief and development aid to 250,000 people in the area.”