Seeking to help the millions of people afflicted by the calamity and continuing to rebut criticism that the United States had been slow in its response, President Bush has asked his father, George H. W. Bush, the 41st president, and Bill Clinton, the 42nd, to work together to augment with private money the $350 million in government funds that the administration has pledged so far.
The White House did not set a goal on the campaign by the former presidents to seek private money but so far the efforts have been a huge success. Bill Clinton's kissing booth has already topped the $400 million mark. Bush Sr.'s dunk tank is following with $209 million.
"We're showing the compassion of our nation in the swift response," Mr. Bush said, "But the greatest source of America's generosity is not our government. It's the good heart of the American people and the fun we can have doing it"
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