To the editor:

I would like to voice my displeasure with the editorial cartoon in the Saturday edition of The Item on Oct. 5, 2024. This cartoon is misleading and expands on lies that have been circulating on the Internet that FEMA is not helping victims of hurricane Helene.

FEMA has provided $750 as an initial payment to folks who lost everything. Additional funds will be available to help those people. No money has been diverted to assist with immigrants.

Money is allocated by Congress to help with natural disasters. The money that has been paid for the immigrant crisis, as well as for other concerns, including Ukraine and Israel, are paid for in a separate allocation.

To imply that FEMA will not assist hurricane victims is a gross misrepresentation, also known as a lie. Item, please do not sacrifice your credibility to circulate unsubstantiated rumors. Do better!

Amy Scarborough

Salem