In just the last week, the U.S. government sent significant amounts of aid to Israel and Ukraine, while Americans in flooded regions like Asheville and other parts of western North Carolina struggle without adequate support.
Recent reports indicate that the Biden-Harris administration has pledged billions of dollars: $14 billion in military aid to Israel and $24 billion to Ukraine, reinforcing its international alliances amid ongoing wars and conflicts.
Though there is a rationale to be made for aiding ally countries overseas, these enormous costs coincide with an urgent need for assistance among Americans at home. Families in western North Carolina are left to pick up the pieces following Hurricane Helene, but many cannot rely on the federal government to offer sufficient support. Fewer than 1 in 200 properties in the flood-affected area are insured by federal flood insurance, leaving many facing the difficult challenge of starting over without the security they are entitled to.
This begs a crucial question: given how many Americans are left vulnerable, alone, and to die after a natural catastrophe like this one, how can the government justify spending so much on help from abroad?
Even if overseas aid is essential to maintaining world peace, it is hard to ignore the shocking difference in the amount of money allocated to global concerns and the lack of urgency when it comes to supporting Americans in their hour of need.
The billions given to Israel and Ukraine should prompt us to reflect on where the government priorities lie… clearly not where they should be.
Appalachia, a region with a long history of economic challenges, now faces even more hardship in the wake of this disaster, yet the response from the federal government has been underwhelming at best.
It’s time to balance global responsibilities with the equally pressing need to invest in and protect our own citizens. The government must not forget the communities at home who are suffering, and federal funds must be allocated to ensure that no Americans are left behind when disaster strikes.
For those looking to help the people of Asheville and the Western North Carolina region, as they recover from the devastation of Hurricane Helene, there are several organizations and resources where donations can make a direct impact:
American Red Cross – Western North Carolina Chapter: The Red Cross is providing disaster relief and support to those displaced by the hurricane, offering shelter, food, and other essentials. Donations can be made specifically for hurricane relief efforts in the region.
Appalachian Regional Commission: an organization that supports economic development and disaster relief efforts in Appalachia. While its primary focus is on long-term recovery and development, donations help fund projects that rebuild and strengthen communities after disasters.
United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County: United Way is coordinating local relief efforts, working with local shelters, food banks, and other organizations to ensure the people affected by the hurricane receive immediate help.
North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund: This state fund assists families impacted by natural disasters, including floods, and partners with organizations providing on-the-ground relief. Donations go toward rebuilding homes and helping families get back on their feet.
Photo Credit: 2024 The Washington Post
Comments