FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 11, 2005

Contact: Matt Alpert (202) 225-4361

Serrano Urges President to Put Compassion Above Politics in Helping Recover from Hurricane Dennis

Washington, DC, July 11, 2005— Today, Congressman José E. Serrano (D-NY) sent the following letter to President George W. Bush, asking him to temporarily suspend US restrictions on remittances and gift parcels that Cuban-Americans can send to their relatives in Cuba, to help in the recovery process after Hurricane Dennis: 

 

 

July 11, 2005

 

 

 

The Honorable George W. Bush

 

President of the United States

 

The White House

 

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.

 

Washington, D.C.  20500

 

 

Dear Mr. President:

 

 

            I write today about a matter of important humanitarian concern.  As you know, Cuba was recently struck by Hurricane Dennis and suffered both loss of human life and property damage. 

 

 

            In order to help Cuba with its recovery, I would like to request that there be a temporary suspension of all restrictions on remittances that Cuban-Americans can send to Cuba.  At the present time, Cuban-Americans can only send $300 in remittances per quarter to immediate family members in Cuba, even if other relatives or friends are in need.  During this time of humanitarian crisis, I would like to request that the limit on the amount of remittances be lifted and that Cuban-Americans be allowed to send the remittances to all who are suffering – whether they are aunts, uncles, cousins or even friends – as often as they wish.

 

 

            In addition, there should be a temporary lifting of restrictions on the items that can be sent in gift parcels.  It would be helpful if family members were able to send personal hygiene items and clothing during this period of suffering.

 

 

            This is an opportunity for our country to show once again that it is capable of great compassion during a time of crisis.  Mr. President, I would like to request that we put aside politics in this moment of great humanitarian need and instead extend a helping hand to our neighbor.

 

 

            I look forward to your response and with best wishes, I am

 

 

 

Sincerely,

 

                                                                                                                                               

 

 

                                                                        José E. Serrano

 

Member of Congress