"Senator Collins has demonstrated steady leadership and vigorous support for helping children in this country and around the world," said Charles MacCormack, president and CEO of Save the Children, a global humanitarian organization that serves children in rural communities of the United States and in more than 50 developing countries. "You have been a tireless advocate for education and a partner of Save the Children on many initiatives and legislative efforts aimed at helping children," MacCormack said.
MacCormack praised Sen. Collins for leading the successful charge to increase the funding for early reading initiatives in the United States.
He recognized her steadfast support of Save the Children's programs serving poor children in rural areas of America, and thanked her for promoting legislation to establish a dedicated funding stream for rural afterschool programs that would address transportation barriers, staff shortages, and inadequate facilities. He also acknowledged her leadership in addressing the unique needs of children in disasters in the United States and her support for expanding the State Children's Health Insurance Program.
Finally, McCormack applauded Sen. Collins for her strong support for the U.S. playing a leading role in shaping a peaceful and prosperous world in which children are better able to develop and achieve their full potential.
He cited her signature on a letter asking then President-elect Obama to support a robust FY10 International Affairs Budget, which funds critical programs that make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families worldwide. Sen. Collins also supported the U.S. Commitment to Global Child Survival Act in the last Congress.
"Improving the lives of poor and vulnerable children at home and abroad requires leadership, and we commend Senator Collins for her dedicated efforts on behalf of children in need," MacCormack said.
Each year, as part of Save the Children's Advocacy Day activities on Capitol Hill, the agency recognizes select congressional leaders for their outstanding work in helping children in need both at home and around the globe.
Besides Sen. Collins, the agency this week also honored Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and honored Rep. Betty McCollum (D-MN) for their work on behalf of children in the United States and worldwide.