Global Laser Talk February 2014

February 2014 Laser Talk: Making Critical Foreign Aid Appropriations Requests

Engage: Most Americans think that the U.S. spends 10 to 25 percent of our budget on foreign aid. When they learn that we spend less than 1 percent on poverty-focused assistance, many feel we could invest more.

State the Problem: But poverty-focused development assistance has been targeted for cuts in recent years, even though it has a profound impact on saving lives as well as on the U.S. economy and national security.

Inform: For example, U.S. investments in child survival have helped cut the number of under-five child deaths in half since the 1980s. Investments in the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria have saved millions of lives. And by promoting health and development, we are investing in future trade partners and allies because developing nations purchase 50% of US exports.

Call to Action: Our representative/senator needs to be a voice for effective foreign aid so that successes can continue. I would like the representative (or senator) to write and speak to the heads of the Foreign Operations Subcommittee of Appropriations. I think the representative/senator would be particularly interested in (choose an issue). How may I send you some detailed requests?