[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 54 (Wednesday, April 24, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Pages S4087-S4088]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE VOLUNTEERS OF HOSPICE CARE, INC.

 Mr. LIEBERMAN. Mr. President, today I would like to recognize 
the volunteers of Hospice Care, Inc. in southwestern Fairfield County, 
CT. For 15 years Hospice Care has provided care and comfort to people 
with terminal illnesses. But beyond providing palliative care, Hospice 
is a program for individuals who are dealing with the emotional and 
spiritual changes that follow the diagnosis of a life-ending illness.
  Hospice could not offer its many meaningful services without its 
volunteers; they are an integral part of Hospice. Together with 
professional staff,

[[Page S4088]]

volunteers work to relieve the physical, emotional and spiritual pain 
experienced by the patient and family. Volunteers provide direct 
patient and family services, including companionship and support, 
transportation, assistance with chores and errands, and pastoral and 
bereavement care. Volunteers visit patients and families in their homes 
and hospitals, nursing homes, homeless shelters, and residences for 
people with AIDS. These volunteers offer a listening ear and a shoulder 
to lean on during a family's most challenging times.
  Other volunteers work behind the scenes, serving on the Board of 
Directors, assisting in fundraising and public education efforts, and 
with administrative tasks. In 1994, 100 active volunteers donated more 
than 12,000 hours of public service, valued at over $250,000. But one 
cannot put a price tag on this dedicated service--these efforts are 
priceless, and Hospice could not operate as successfully as it does 
without its volunteers.
  It is with great pride and pleasure that I commend the volunteers of 
Hospice Care for their many hours of difficult and dedicated 
service.

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