[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 120 (Tuesday, August 10, 2010)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E1566-E1567] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] EXPRESSING SYMPATHY FOR PAKISTANI FLOOD VICTIMS ______ HON. JOHN B. LARSON of connecticut in the house of representatives Tuesday, August 10, 2010 Mr. LARSON of Connecticut. Madam Speaker, I rise to offer my deepest condolences to the victims of the recent flooding in Pakistan, which is the worst this country has seen in 80 years. A monsoon that began at the end of July has resulted in at least 1,500 lives being lost, countless more missing or trapped, and at least three million people being displaced. It is estimated that up to half of those affected by the disaster are children. Critical infrastructure, crops, and homes have been destroyed and aid to impoverished areas has been disrupted. As the Pakistani people recover from this devastation, they should know that the United States stands with them and is ready to provide assistance. There are immediate needs that must be addressed, such as supplying food, clean drinking water, basic shelter, disease prevention, and the rebuilding of roads and bridges. I am heartened by the efforts from the Pakistani government, the United States, the United Nations, philanthropic organizations, and charitable donations from private citizens across the world. The United States has acted swiftly by committing $35 million, as well as humanitarian aid experts and essential supplies, to assist Pakistani citizens affected by the flooding. The United States Army is providing four Chinook [[Page E1567]] and two Blackhawk helicopters to the Swat Valley, delivering 33 tons of supplies and airlifting 800 people to safety. Additionally, American citizens have been making small donations through their cell phones by texting the word ``SWAT'' to the number 50555. This money goes to the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees to provide needed supplies like tents, clean water, food, clothing, and medicine. This is an unspeakable tragedy. Sadly, monsoon rains continue to fall; further endangering populations and making relief efforts even more challenging. Increased international assistance is critical to helping the millions who are in immediate need of food or shelter. My thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Pakistan as they recover from this disaster. ____________________