Hello friend,
As of today, nearly $12 million of contraceptives and HIV medicines — already purchased by the US government — are sitting in warehouses instead of being delivered to the health care providers they were meant for. At the same time, nearly 500 metric tons of high-energy biscuits — again, already purchased — are being left to rot and face imminent incineration.
The condoms, IUDs, pills, and implants were meant for vulnerable women in sub-Saharan Africa, including young girls (who face higher health risks from early pregnancy) and those fleeing conflict. Instead of helping these people avoid unwanted pregnancies, the Trump administration is considering simply destroying the supplies.
Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Brian Schatz (D-HI) have introduced legislation to prevent the administration from destroying the contraceptives, or any other medical supplies or food aid.
The Saving Lives and Taxpayer Dollars Act will ensure that these supplies are distributed. Representatives Gregory Meeks (D-NY), Grace Meng (D-NY), and Lois Frankel (D-FL) have followed with similar legislation in the House (H.R. 416).
We must remind our elected officials that we will hold them accountable for their neglect of life-saving aid and abuse of power. Can you take a few moments to urge your senators and representatives to support the Saving Lives and Taxpayer Dollars Act today?
