[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 143 (Thursday, November 2, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2067-E2068]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  RECOGNITION OF THE LEARN SHOP, INC.

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. CONSTANCE A. MORELLA

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 2, 2000

  Mrs. MORELLA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I recognize 
the achievements of Learn Shop, Inc., a Montgomery County based United 
Way organization that is dedicated to improving economically 
disadvantaged school communities throughout the Baltimore-Washington 
Metropolitan area. Entering its second year, their ``Drive for 
Supplies'' program has made significant advances towards reducing 
poverty in school communities by aiding underprivileged students, 
schools, and communities. This creative recycling program, in 
conjunction with Montgomery County Public Schools, encourages students 
at the end of the school year to donate their used but usable school 
supplies to impoverished students in disadvantaged school communities.
  The ``Drive for Supplies'' program has already had significant 
success in its first year. At the end of last school year, with the 
full support of Montgomery County Public School Superintendent Dr. 
Jerry Weast, the program collected $75,000 in school supplies. Learn 
Shop Inc. is helping students realize that what was previously regarded 
as trash can be turned into usable school supplies, clothing, and 
computers. These items not only help disadvantaged students in other 
school communities but it also gives students a sense that they are 
filling a need in the world.
  Along with promoting community action, the ``Drive for Supplies'' 
saves schools money each year by reducing disposal costs while also 
reducing waste in our community. For their innovation, ``Drive for 
Supplies'' has enjoyed a glowing recognition from the Environmental 
Protection Agency.
  Children and communities positively affected by the ``Drive for 
Supplies'' program have been more than grateful for Learn Shop Inc.'s 
efforts. Not only has Learn Shop Inc. distributed school supplies to 
local area children,

[[Page E2068]]

they have also donated supplies to refugee students affected by the war 
in the Balkans in Kosvo. The ``Drive for Supplies'' program truly has 
the ability to reach thousands of students across the world.
  Beginning with Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic Region, Learn Shop hopes 
to expand the program around the nation, in hopes of reducing poverty 
nationally and helping children in need. I applaud the efforts of Learn 
Shop and encourage them to continue all the work that is greatly needed 
in our communities.

                          ____________________