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Advocacy Blog
Thursday, September 22, 2005
Kudos Are Right, But Main Point Is Wrong
Michael Tanner of CATO begins a recent article giving kudos to the charities who responded to the devestation of Hurricane Katrina.
"While the response to hurricane Katrina has uncovered failures of government at every level - federal, state, and local - it has also revealed again the amazing generosity and effectiveness of America's private charitable efforts."
Tanner is right in giving kudos to the great works that groups like the Red Cross and the ASPCA are doing to help people and animals that are victims of Hurricane Katrina.
He also gives props to corporations that are opening thier wallets. "American business is doing its part, too. Wal-Mart, so reviled by the American left, not only donated $20 million in cash, 1,500 truckloads of free merchandise, and food for 100,000 meals, it promised a job for every one of its displaced workers no matter where in the country they end up. At least 90 corporations have donated at least $1 million each, many far more than that. Many companies in Louisiana and Mississippi have promised to continue paying their workers, even if their stores or businesses were wiped out."
However, his article continues on to advocate against the government as a first reponder. More of like a second responder.
Why?
"[P]rivate charity has long been recognized as more effective and efficient than government welfare programs. Local churches and community groups are the best positioned to understand the needs in their respective areas, and can direct money or services to where they are most useful. Private charities are generally far more flexible than government agencies, which are frequently bogged down in red tape and regulations."
While nonprofits may be more flexible than government entities, it does not mean that the government - at any level - should abstain from their responsibilty to protect its citizens. In New Orleans, the people depended on the government to ensure the levees were in place, work, and would be adequately maintained. But the government failed them. And now the Red Cross must clean it up.
On August 31, President Bush implored people to make donations to the Red Cross. And people did - to the tune of 1.06 billion dollars. But when disaster strikes, we should not have to rely on the generosity of individuals that are living paycheck-to-paycheck to begin with.
The nation's charities have done a stunning and stellar job after Katrina. But the government shouldn't shirk their responsibility just because the American people are willing to open up their hearts and their wallets.
Posted by Jennifer Lowe
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