Global Health Funding At Risk: Take Action Now!

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As you know, we have been urging President Obama and the U.S. Congress to commit $1 billion to international family planning programs in 2010--which would be part of the Federal International Affairs Budget. The House and Senate budget committees have now approved a 2010 budget with significantly less funding for international affairs than in President Obama's original budget proposal, which called for $53.8 billion. The House committee proposes spending 10% less on international affairs than President Obama's budget, and the Senate committee calls for a 7.4% reduction.

The International Affairs Budget supports critical global development and health initiatives that save children's lives, prevent the spread of HIV and malaria, and provide women and couples with lifesaving family planning that lets them plan their futures and offers opportunities to escape the cycle of poverty. We need to ensure Congress fully funds these vital international programs. The global financial crisis has only worsened conditions for the world's most vulnerable people, and our support now can significantly impact their lives.

Senators John Kerry (D-MA) and Richard Lugar (R-IN) have introduced an amendment in the Senate to restore President Obama's original request level for the International Affairs Budget. It is very important that you e-mail a letter to your Senators and urge them to co-sponsor and vote for the Kerry-Lugar Amendment and oppose any other reductions in funding. You can also call the Senate switchboard at (202) 224-3121 and ask to speak your Senator's office.

The time to act is now. Make sure your voice is heard! Go to www.engenderhealth.org/s2010 and send the message to your senators.