American generosity shines

San Jose Mercury News: The pictures of devastation and the horrific numbers of dead and injured only begin to convey the depth of suffering caused by last week’s cataclysmic earthquake in already impoverished Haiti. Perhaps that’s what broke through Americans’ preoccupation with their own hardships this winter and inspired them to reach out.

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton announced that more than 1 million Americans have used text messages (text HAITI to 90999) to donate more than $10 million so far in what she described as “the single largest mobile donation campaign ever.”

Sadly, it’s only a start. The Red Cross is seeking $100 million to help rebuild Haiti over the next three years, on top of the $100 million the federal government has pledged and $500 million coming from Europe.

American tradition

President Barack Obama quickly rallied American resources after the quake, upholding the American tradition of helping others in time of need. It’s one of our most important qualities, as former Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton pointed out in their joint fundraising appeal.

Haiti long has been a political and humanitarian disaster. Some see that as a reason to turn their backs on the country now.

But for most, it just makes this tragedy more compelling.

It’s frustrating that agencies have been slow to get food, water and medical help to the people who need it.