To the editor:

After World War II, aid given by the United States to our allies in Europe played a key role in creating a more stable Europe. Our assistance helped them rebuild their homes and their economies, and created friends among former enemies, making us more secure after the war ended.

Although we cannot prevent conflict, corruption, and tragedy, the world can lend a hand to its poor, its hungry, and its victims of war — no matter where they live. The U.S. does surprisingly little these days to help hurting people abroad, failing to uphold its pledge with the international community to spend 0.7 percent of its Gross National Income on development assistance — we only spend 0.19 percent. Despite the many benefits of implementing cost-efficient proposals, such as the Digital Gap Act and READ Act, that would provide them with the tools to address obstacles like drought, food shortages, and education gaps on their own.

In addition to food aid, developing internet access has made it easier to bring education to poor and rural farmers, teaching them more efficient farming techniques. And because our economy is heavily export based, our new friends will continue to trade in our markets, creating a variety of jobs at home.

We should certainly be increasing our efforts to address poverty and hunger here, and part of that lies in a global approach that will also make us more secure, create jobs, and educate people to take care of themselves — no matter where they live!

Sincerely,

Brett Chumley

Harrogate, Tennessee