[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 118 (Tuesday, September 9, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1695]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 TRIBUTE TO THE VISALIA RESCUE MISSION

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. GEORGE P. RADANOVICH

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, September 9, 1997

  Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the 
Visalia Rescue Mission. The support and guidance of this organization 
provides hope for homeless men, women, and children who would otherwise 
feel abandoned.
  Beginning in 1980, the Visalia Rescue Mission has served the needs of 
the homeless throughout California's Tulare County. What distinguishes 
this nonprofit organization from others is its desire to move these 
individuals beyond mere survival in today's society and provide them 
with the resources necessary to become productive and respected members 
of their community.
  The Visalia Rescue Mission conducts two major programs. The STEP 
[Spiritual Training Education Program] Program begins by submitting men 
to a 14-30 day probationary program where they are nourished, 
detoxified, clothed, exercised, and introduced to spiritual guidance. 
Once these basic needs are met, the men enter into a 6-month 12-step 
program where the main focus is on both spiritual training and 
obtaining job referrals. Finally, a 1-year reentry program supports the 
men in their efforts to find housing and hold jobs Along with the men's 
STEP Program, the Visalia Rescue Mission runs a Family Center which 
provides for the necessary needs of families, women, and children. The 
Family Center provides Christian spiritual leadership, anger 
management, parenting classes, referrals to employment training, and 
jobs. Finally, it provides leads for low-cost housing.
  Over the years the Visalia Rescue Mission has performed invaluable 
services to those less fortunate in our society. Through programs like 
STEP and the Family Center, many individuals are directed into new 
lives filled with hope, success, and spiritual satisfaction. Things 
many of these individuals have never experienced before.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I pay tribute to the Visalia 
Rescue Mission. This organization provides a hope for many homeless 
men, women, and children. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing the 
Visalia Rescue Mission many more years of gratifying success in aiding 
the homeless.

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