WASHINGTON, D.C. (Press Release) — Prominent members of the U.S. Congress expressed their admiration to EFRAT’s founder Dr. Eli Schussheim for his organization’s efforts to help mothers carry their babies to full term. EFRAT steps in where the mother is facing a dilemma of whether to continue with her pregnancy, but does not feel financially or emotionally able to do so. Schussheim, President of Israel’s Committee for the Rescue of Israel’s Babies-EFRAT, recently visited the Unites States and met in the Capitol with four Senators and nine members of the House of Representatives.
Schussheim, a leading surgeon in Israel who has dedicated his life’s work to EFRAT completely on a voluntary basis, told of his organization’s efforts to save lives of so many. EFRAT assists thousands of pregnant women annually with monthly food packages and basic baby equipment such as cribs, strollers, baby baths and layettes. Over 3,000 trained volunteers are constantly available to provide women facing an unwanted pregnancy with one-on-one counseling and emotional support backed by EFRAT’s assurance of physical assistance.
Former Vice Presidential candidate and chairman of the House Budget Committee Rep. Paul Ryan (R-Wisconsin) took time out of packed schedule to praise Dr. Schussheim and was visibly moved when he reviewed the photos of the children born because of EFRAT.
At the various meetings on The Hill, Schussheim stated that in all of his years running EFRAT, not a single woman has ever regretted having her child, each of whom was saved for a mere $1,800 worth of supplies and equipment. Since 1977 EFRAT saved the lives of over 50,000 Jewish children in Israel.
EFRAT’s goal is to inform women faced with an unwanted pregnancy that there are choices. Not all unwanted pregnancies must end with an abortion.
Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) expressed his deep appreciation and offered his support of expanding a similar approach to the U.S. and the world. Rep. Vicky Hartzler said, “It is so encouraging and inspiring the work you have done. I am so encouraged to know that you’re leading the charge in Israel and you are having success and we just need to multiply this in both our countries and around the world.”
Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah) lauded the work being done by EFRAT and thanked Dr. Schussheim for the “great work.” “I commend you for what you are doing,” he said. “Anything that encourages people to choose life over death is a good thing.” Rep. Steve Womack )R-Arkansas) described Schussheim’s presentation as “a tremendous example of the great work that is being performed by the organization. I’m very, very proud.”
“Thank you for your commitment,” said Senator Tim Scott (R-South Carolina) after receiving a presentation by Dr. Schussheim. “When you think about the fact that over 56 million folks haven’t stepped on soil because of their lost lives, here is an opportunity for us to take a positive stand and a strong position in protecting life.”
In a lengthy sit down, Rep. Paul C. Broun (R-Georgia) alluded to the effort in stopping abortion, saying his first bill he introduced in Congress was ‘The Sanctity of Human Life Act,’ and is also the first bill Dr. Broun introduces each Congress. Dr. Broun who’s now a candidate for US Senate pledged to continue introducing the Human Life Act as the very first bill if he obtains that seat. “It is important for us to understand that life is precious and it is part of our Judeo-Christian principles that has made this country so great, “he said.
Rep. Broun also spoke about his love and deep connection to Israel. “I support Israel because of a promise that G-d made to Abraham – our father,” he told Dr. Schussheim.
You are one of the few from your community that I’ve heard speak this way,” Senator Joe Manchin (D-West Virginia) told Dr. Schussheim after a brief introduction. The senator who describes himself as pro-life expressed his willingness to visit EFRAT facilities when he visits Israel in the near future.
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