[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 12 (Thursday, February 10, 2000)]
[Senate]
[Page S645]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS NATIONAL HOME

 Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, I rise to congratulate the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars National Home on their 75th anniversary. The 
VFW National Home--also known as the VFW National Home for children--
located in Eaton Rapids, MI, celebrated this milestone birthday on the 
seventh of January, 2000.
  The VFW National Home for Children has served more than 1,600 people 
across the country who have family ties to members of the VFW and 
Ladies Auxiliary. The 600 acre facility grew from a plot of land that 
was initially donated by a Jackson farmer in 1925. Originally created 
as an orphanage for children of dead or disabled veterans, the home now 
has professional case workers on staff, while offering full college 
funding for children, a program for single parents, and other social 
programs.
  The house is home to 91 children and 27 single parents. In addition 
to social services, it offers a nursery, sports programs, and several 
extracurricular activities. And, as if this wasn't impressive enough, 
the VFW National Home is run totally on private donations.
  Mr. President, Michiganians are privileged to have this important 
home in their state. It is an honor today, on behalf of the United 
States Senate, to offer congratulations on their anniversary and thanks 
to all of those who donate their time, their love, and their financial 
resources to the VFW National Home.

                          ____________________