Support global aid to fight COVID-19

Now more than ever, we are reflecting on our individual health, especially considering how Lake County has recently reported almost 500 deaths due to COVID-19. Lives have been cut too short due to the pandemic, and many people anxiously await news of a vaccine.

The unprecedented health crisis leaves people feeling helpless. It is crucial that people understand that we will not stop the virus if we do not practice social distancing and wear a mask. Furthermore, we must not forget that COVID-19 escalated from an epidemic to a pandemic once it became a global issue. With that being said, not many are aware that the last emergency supplemental passed with less than half of 1% of the package earmarked for international funding to fight COVID-19.

Reevaluating U.S. foreign policy is critical to completely combat the virus now, but also to prevent the escalation to another pandemic in the future. I urge the congressional leaders of my district, Sen. Dick Durbin, Sen. Tammy Duckworth and Rep. Brad Schneider to support at least $20 billion in the next emergency supplemental for the International Affairs Budget to fight COVID-19 which would include resources for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and malaria, as well as lifesaving anti-hunger and nutrition programs.

Alyssa Barrera

Gurnee