What can the U.S. do to alleviate the tragic migrant crisis in Europe?

The image of a tiny boy washed up on a Turkish shore has drawn attention to the massive refugee crisis in the eurozone. The United Nations reports that more than 4 million Syrians have fled their country’s four-year civil war, and more than 300,000 men, women and children have crossed the Mediterranean this year alone. But thousands of refugees are dying on the journey, while European nations struggle to absorb the massive influx of migrants. What can the U.S. do to help?

We as a nation need to learn the art of compassion and empathy.

We focus on the absurd, mindless, meaningless products of our culture, having no clue or concern with what is taking place outside our own backyard.

I think we as individuals should reach in our pockets and give, as well. There are plenty of legitimate organizations that are sending aid to the refugees. At some point, we need to care.

— Diana Scott, Bedford

Why is this atrocity just making our headlines?

Is it because thousands of refugees attempting the dangerous trip across the Mediterranean Sea to Greece and other European countries have made it just a little too close for comfort?

Are Europe and the U.S. being forced to aid a country’s population that actually needs it with no geopolitical reward in exchange?

— Patrick Jenkins, Arlington

First, we must ensure people are ready, willing and able to form a government.

Second, along with other nations, we must rid the country of terrorists.

Then ship in food, medical supplies and personnel who can temporarily help to get the country stable.

Once there is peace I think most of the people would opt to return to their homeland.

— Carolyn McKinney, Horseshoe Bay

While most of the refugees may indeed support secular government, I can’t help but wonder how many will just spread jihad here.

With a billion Muslims in the world, why aren’t Muslim countries accepting them?

We have enough people in this country who want their own brand of theocracy; we don’t need more.

— Tom Glenn, Fort Worth

We must do our part in making this world a better and safer place for everyone.

This is why an international organization started by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community called Humanity First, has started two new schools in Jordan for Syrian children.

As Ahmadi Muslims, we believe education is key to rebuilding lives of these refugees.

While schooling may seem like a distant priority in comparison to the daily needs of a place to sleep or some food to eat, the U.S. must do its part in not only keeping this generation of Syrians alive, but by giving them a life worth living.

— Huma Munir, Pflugerville

Some say we shouldn’t be fighting other peoples’ wars, but we also shouldn’t have to take untold numbers of refugees with no consequences for those who caused this exodus.

It would make more sense to destroy the terrorists so these people can go back to their own homeland safely.

— Eva Snapka, Arlington

The rich nations of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain and the UAE should receive diplomatic pressure to accept these immigrants since they are near them and are culturally alike.

Even Iran, a Shiite nation, should accept these immigrants since many of them are Shiite.

It is time for the Gulf region to solve their own problems and quit asking the Western world to bankroll a solution for them.

— Tom Roman, Mansfield

Ironically the U.S. has a similar problem with migrants trying to enter our country.

They too are seeking safety and a better way of life for their families. Yes, some are probably terrorists and criminals.

Many die in their effort to reach America, with very little outrage by us.

The U.S. can devise and enforce a comprehensive immigration policy. It can then help the Europeans with their migrant policy.

— Jim Sanderson, Fort Worth

Terrorist groups are causing the problem. These terrorist groups when unchallenged will continue to wreak havoc.

Putting it off with appeasements and limited action just encourages continued terror. Nobody wants to war against them except those who recognize that freedom will be terminated unless action is immediate.

The United States can help by taking major action against these terrorist groups, now!

— Grady Fuller, Kennedale

People can help with financial donations to groups such as world Catholic Relief and other Christian relief organizations and a national Sunday collection (pass the basket).

Also, people can support the UN and other countries that are being overwhelmed with refugees, especially Germany.

Lastly, a national day of prayer for God’s help!

— George J. Anthony, Fort Worth

This story was originally published September 11, 2015 at 7:57 PM with the headline "What can the U.S. do to alleviate the tragic migrant crisis in Europe?."