[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 69 (Friday, May 9, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E924]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                                  MACV

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. BETTY McCOLLUM

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 9, 2003

  Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 
Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV), and in honor of their 
receiving the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans 2003 Outstanding 
Member Award.
  The Outstanding Member Award is presented annually to the coalition 
member that demonstrates ``exemplary commitment and service to 
American's homeless veterans.'' Through a strong, collaborative 
partnership with medical and veterans' centers across Minnesota and an 
unmatched commitment to the state's homeless veterans population, the 
MACV has met and exceeded these qualifications. As a result, this award 
recognizes the tremendous achievements the MACV has provided for all 
Minnesota citizens.
  Since 1992, when it opened its first office in my Congressional 
District, the MACV has grown significantly. Today, the MACV operates 
eight transitional housing facilities throughout the state. By 
providing food, housing, employment and school opportunities in a 
structured, affordable program, the MACV represents a model 
organization for other states to replicate.
  As we celebrate the achievements of the MACV and all our nation's 
homeless assistance programs, I urge my colleagues to remember the 
thousands of homeless veterans across the United States that go without 
help each and every day. On any given night, 275,000 veterans of the 
United States armed forces--including thousands in Minnesota--are 
homeless, and many struggle with alcohol, drug and mental challenges. 
It is critical that we continue to support the efforts of those who 
seek to provide these honorable veterans with a better way-of-life.
  I commend the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans and their 
staff for this award, and thank the thousands of people across the 
United States committed to helping our nation's homeless veterans each 
and every day.

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