Statement by Congressman John Olver

It is hard not to feel helpless when one sees images of devastation and suffering in south Asia caused by the Dec. 26 tsunami. Victims that were lucky enough to have escaped with their lives now face the mounting threat of disease and still must cope long-term with the loss of family members, livelihoods, homes and entire communities.

It is difficult for many of us to imagine how we could personally make a difference in the aftermath of such devastation. But numerous humanitarian relief organizations have been working nonstop since the disaster to deliver life-saving aid, including medical assistance, clean water, food, sanitation equipment and temporary shelter to ravaged towns and villages. Private support for their efforts is helping tsunami survivors stay healthy through the critical period when they face the highest threats of starvation and disease. Looking forward, financial support to outreach organizations like Habitat for Humanity that are skilled at development and committed to redevelopment will promote the rehabilitation processes necessary to fully heal the ravaged areas.

As the images of south Asia devastation begin to fade this month from television newscasts, replaced by other news stories and the relentless churn of American pop culture and entertainment industry-related media coverage, I urge my friends and my constituents, if you have the means, to make an investment in humanity and lend a helping hand to those left destitute by the Dec. 26 tsunami. Tsunami Relief '05 is a great place to start!