WASHINGTON (AP) -- Several religious leaders have encouraged
senators to support poverty-focused development assistance programs in the federal budget.

Bread for the World president Rev. David Beckmann was among a
group of faith leaders who have called on Congress not to cut programs supporting the world's poor. Beckmann said the leaders had a moral responsibility to support and protect "the poorest people
in the poorest places."

Beckman said the aid makes up less than one percent of the
federal budget. He also says the assistance not only saves lives
but enhances U.S. national security. The Senate is expected to vote on the state and foreign operations appropriations bill this week. It is likely that drastic cuts to current funding levels will be proposed.

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