I rise in support of H.R. 1239. urgent supplemental appropriations for emergency famine relief and recovery in Africa. a measure designed to assist over 14 million people in 20 countries of Africa to escape death or permanent disability due to a lack of food. It Is with a sense of alarm that I urge all of my colleagues to support this emergency legislation. Specifically. this initiative will provide: $480 million for food relief to be expended by September 30. 1985. $225 million for for.-d reserves to be used. if needed. between the date of enactment and fiscal year 1986. $120 million of commodity sales of food to affected countries at discounted prices. $137.5 million in refugee assistance funds. H.R. 1239 also sagaciously directs the Agency for International Development to utilize as much as possible private voluntary organizations in carrying out the food assistance programs provided for in the bill. The process of emphasizing private voluntary organizations will enhance the likelihood that food assistance reaches those in greatest need in the most timely and efficient fashion.