December 28, 1948
Letter, Paul Comly French, Executive Director of CARE, to President Truman
December 28, 1948
The President
The White House
Washington, D.C.
Dear Mr. President:
May I take the liberty of suggesting to you that the United States Government issue a special postage stamp depicting the work of CARE?
I believe that it would be in the national interest to issue such a stamp at this time.
1. It would recognize the voluntary sacrifices of millions of Americans! who have thus far sent more than seventy million dollars in food and clothing to needy people overseas through CARE.
2. In addition it would recognize the valiant efforts of the twenty-six labor, relief, religious and cooperative organizations who make up CARE.
3. It would draw attention to the work of CARE and the need for continuance of this and other relief organizations. Millions of Americans who might not otherwise be aware of the problem would be reminded through a postage stamp.
4. It would be an excellent way of showing people here and abroad that the United States Government encourages this non-profit voluntary agency. CARE has built up a tremendous reservoir of good will for the United States even in those countries behind the "Iron Curtain".
5. The various government departments know of and approve the work CARE is doing. The State Department actively supported and aided the organization of CARE. American embassies have been helpful in negotiating CARE contracts with foreign governments. ECA has helped with shipping costs. The Department of Defense has likewise aided CARE wherever possible. CARE though a voluntary agency, is closely allied with the U.S. Government in helping to rebuild Europe and the Orient.
6. CARE's immediate mission is the feeding and clothing of needy people. Its long-range purpose, like your own, Mr. President, is to help bring about peace and understanding. U.S. stamps during the last few months have commemorated the Centenary of Fort Bliss, the. founder of the Buddy Poppy and the poultry industry. This might again be an appropriate time for the government to show its support of those men and organizations working with you toward those ends.
I am enclosing suggested sketches for a stamp.
Thanking you once again for your magnificent support of CARE, I remain
Cordially yours,
Paul Comly French
Executive Director
Enclosures
An unusual request reached President Truman’s desk in December 1948. It was written by the executive director of CARE, the humanitarian agency responsible for getting food aid to Europeans in the wake of World War II.
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An unusual request reached President Truman’s desk in December 1948. It was written by the executive director of CARE, the humanitarian agency responsible for getting food aid to Europeans in the wake of World War II.