The past seven months have shown how much our country depends on charities. Yet, today, America's charities face very difficult times. It's ironic to me that in the immediate aftermath of September the 11th, we responded and, yet, there are too many charities hurting. Part of it is because of a recession. Part of it is that a lot of money has gone into those charities directly involved with the relief efforts. And that's good; but it's not good enough for the future of our country that many charities suffer today, and we're going to do something about it.

I'm going to make sure that our government passes legislation that does a couple of things. One, that encourages more private sector giving, that makes giving to the armies of compassion a more profitable venture for the individual by allowing the people to deduct from their income taxes all charitable gifts.

Some of the greatest welfare programs in America are on the street corners of inner city America in a house of worship. Some of the best places where lost souls find hope are in our synagogues. Mosques provide great hope for people who wonder whether America is meant for them. And our government must recognize the power of these programs. Complete Text

President Bush Announces Faith-Based Initiative

It is one of the great goals of my administration to invigorate the spirit of involvement and citizenship. We will encourage faith-based and community programs without changing their mission. We will help all in their work to change hearts while keeping a commitment to pluralism.

I approach this goal with some basic principles: Government has important responsibilities for public health or public order and civil rights. Government will never be replaced by charities and community groups. Yet, when we see social needs in America, my administration will look first to faith-based programs and community groups, which have proven their power to save and change lives. We will not fund the religious activities of any group, but when people of faith provide social services, we will not discriminate against them. Complete Text