WASHINGTON, DC — Applauded for his leadership in addressing the health and wellbeing of millions of children in the developing world, Rep. Jim Himes (D-CT) was honored tonight with Save the Children’s 2011 Congressional Champion Inspiring Lasting Change for Children award.
“Since he was elected to Congress in 2008, Representative Himes has demonstrated unwavering commitment to helping all children achieve their full potential in life,” said Charles MacCormack, president and CEO of Save the Children, a global humanitarian organization that serves children in need in the United States and around the world.
“We applaud Congressman Himes for standing up for the poorest children around the world. Investing in children’s survival, health and opportunities is not only the right thing to do, it lays a critical foundation for development. That, in turn, benefits us all by creating global stability and prosperity,” MacCormack added.
Save the Children commended Himes for sponsoring the Newborn, Child, and Mother Survival Act of 2009 in the 111th Congress to help protect the lives of millions who die each year from preventable and treatable causes. The agency also recognized his consistent leadership in supporting the International Affairs budget, which funds programs critical to saving lives and keeping America safe. Save the Children praised Rep. Himes for his domestic work as well, including securing curriculum development funding for early childhood education, obesity, and literacy programs.
“It’s a great honor to be recognized by an organization so committed to and effective at making children’s lives better both here at home and around the world,” said Himes. “I look forward to our continued work together to improve education, to ensure all children can grow up safe and healthy, and to provide the opportunities kids need to become informed, productive members of society.”
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.
In addition to Rep. Himes, Save the Children this week also honored Sen. Roger Wicker, (R-MS), Sen. Mark Pryor (D-AR) and Rep. Dave Reichert (R-WA) for their work on behalf of children in the United States and worldwide.
Save the Children is the leading, independent organization that creates lasting change for children in need in the United States and 120 countries around the world.