WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ) promised to “leave no stone unturned” in the federal relief effort to victims of Hurricane Katrina.  The House of Representatives today reconvened in an emergency session to pass H.R. 3645 – The Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act, which provided $10.5 billion dollars in funding to the relief effort.   In a speech on the floor of the House of Representatives today, Smith said:

“I have traveled to the tsunami stricken lands of Ache, Phuket and Sri Lanka and just returned from refugee camps in  Darfur largely subsidized by the United States,” said Smith.  “I can tell you that the leadership of the United States is saving lives across the globe, but charity begins at home.  We must leave no stone unturned in our efforts to save the lives of those devastated by Hurricane Katrina.” 

“Today’s appropriation is a down payment and is only the beginning of an aggressive humanitarian effort that is necessary to help those most in need,” said Smith.  “The people on the Gulf Coast must know that we will be with you until the very end of this crisis, no matter how long it takes.” 

Smith also implored citizens across America to join together to help those that have been uprooted in the wake of the hurricane.

“People are still waiting to be saved.  They need shelter, they need clothing.  They need our help,” he said.  “There will be a time and a place to review the actions that have taken place, and to learn from any mistakes that may have been made.  That time is not today.  We must channel our emotions and turn them into resolute and meaningful action.  Today is a time for all Americans to join together to help our fellow citizens so desperately in need.”

“It is in our darkest hours that we, as Americans, have always found a way to overcome the most devastating tragedies.  I have no doubt that once again, together, we will overcome,” he concluded.  

The following websites and phone numbers offer information on ways that New Jerseyans can help:

·        American Red Cross
(800) HELP NOW (435-7669) English; (800) 257-7575 Spanish

·        New Jersey Red Cross
Tel: (609) 951-8550

·        Federal Emergency Management Agency
How You can Help
Toll free registration line at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) – TTY 800-462-7585 

·        The White House Hurricane Relief Information

·        Operation Blessing
(800) 436-6348

·        America’s Second Harvest
(800) 344-8070

·     The National Database of Nonprofit Organizations (GuideStar)