[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 152 (Thursday, November 12, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2308]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           TRIBUTE TO MCREST

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DAVID E. BONIOR

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 12, 1998

  Mr. BONIOR. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to 
recognize the achievements of a very special organization. For the past 
ten years, the Macomb County Rotating Emergency Shelter Team has been 
providing temporary emergency shelter for the homeless in Macomb 
County, Michigan. On November 5, 1998, community members, volunteers 
and host church participants will join in to celebrate the 10th 
Anniversary of this exceptional organization.
  Prior to the opening of MCREST in 1988, many of the homeless from 
Macomb County were forced to go to other counties due to lack of 
shelter facilities. During their first year, eight churches 
participated in the program and could only provide for the very basic 
needs of the homeless. MCREST is unique in that the homeless are 
actually sheltered in each participating church, not a permanent 
shelter building. Bedding, beds, and all other equipment, supplies and 
materials needed to house the homeless, are actually transferred each 
week from church to church. These churches agree to open their 
facilities and their hearts to the homeless for a period of one week.
  Throughout the years, MCREST has been a haven for the less fortunate 
members of society in Macomb County. While their goal is to no longer 
be needed because every person has a home, experience has taught them 
that the homeless will be with us for a long time to come. During 47 
weeks of the year, MCREST and its participating member churches provide 
up to 65 shelter beds per night. In cooperation with other agencies, 
guests are offered medical screening and counseling. This humanitarian 
effort could not be accomplished without the tremendous dedication of 
over 5,000 church member volunteers.
  I commend the work of MCREST and all member churches as they 
celebrate ten years of devotion to the homeless in Macomb County. Few 
people have the spirit and dedication to give to their community as 
they have given of themselves. I would like to congratulate MCREST and 
hope the goal of this organization can someday be realized.

                          ____________________