[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 155 (Friday, November 7, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2218]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                  HONORING THE CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ELIOT L. ENGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, November 7, 1997

  Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to praise the Citizens Advice 
Bureau, an organization started in the Bronx 25 years ago which has 
helped thousands of people to make a better life.
  The CAB is a multiservice organization founded by clergy, community 
activists, and social workers who were concerned about the rising level 
of poverty and the massive housing loss the Bronx was suffering. From a 
single office it has expanded to 20 offices serving an area with a 
population of 600,000.
  It was a pioneer in the consumer protection field, entitlements and 
advocacy for senior citizens. In its initial years, it worked for 
affordable housing and tenant protection. In the late 1980's, CAB was 
one of the first Bronx organizations to implement an AIDS services 
program. In the 1990's, its transitional housing program and family 
relocation services enabled more than 1,000 families to stabilize their 
lives and secure permanent housing. Its eviction prevention program has 
kept 10,000 families in permanent housing.
  The CAB now works to provide immigrants with help and guidance. Every 
year more than 1,500 young people participate in its early childhood 
development programs, summer camp, and teen programs.
  The Homeless Outreach Team patrols 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in 
streets, highways, and parks to find and help homeless people. Because 
of their efforts not a single homeless person has died in the Bronx 
during the past two winters.
  The CAB helps those in need, making the Bronx a better place for 
people of all ages. It deserves thanks from all of us.

                          ____________________