Senator Boxer: Assisting Orphans of AIDS

[paineinthearse]

Received by email.

Senator Boxer: Assisting Orphans of AIDS
Date: Mon, 6 Jun 2005 22:15:24 -0700

I thought you would be interested in the following message.

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Dear Friend:

I recently joined Senator Richard Lugar (R-IN) in reintroducing
the Assistance for Orphans and Other Vulnerable Children in
Developing Countries Act. This bill would help those most
vulnerable to the HIV/AIDS pandemic throughout the world.

An estimated 14 million children have lost either one or both
parents to HIV/AIDS. By the year 2010, it is estimated that
this number will grow to 25 million. The pandemic has created
an orphans crisis, especially in sub-Saharan Africa where the
HIV/AIDS situation is most severe. The struggle of those
orphaned by this pandemic is heartbreaking. These children face
the trauma of watching their parents die. They are forced at a
very young age to care for their younger siblings while
suffering from deep poverty, hunger, and sicknesses.

Our legislation is designed to help orphans and other
vulnerable children who have been affected by the HIV/AIDS
pandemic. First, our bill would authorize the President to
provide assistance to orphans and other vulnerable children in
developing countries. Specific authorization is provided in the
areas of basic care, HIV/AIDS treatment, school food programs,
protection of inheritance rights, and education and employment
training assistance. Second, this legislation calls on the
President to use U.S. foreign assistance to support programs
that eliminate school fees. Throughout the world, many orphans
are prevented from attending school because they cannot afford
to pay school fees or are forced to financially support their
families or care for sick relatives. And, third, our bill
would require the President to develop and submit to Congress a
strategy for coordinating, implementing, and monitoring
assistance programs for orphans and vulnerable children.

The AIDS orphan crisis in sub-Saharan Africa is a human
tragedy. It also has implications for political stability,
development, and human welfare that extend far beyond the
region, affecting governments and people worldwide. Making
progress to combat this crisis will require a coordinated,
comprehensive, and swift response. It is my hope that the
Senate will act with urgency to support and pass this essential
legislation.

Sincerely,

Barbara Boxer
United States Senator