[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 117 (Friday, September 24, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1710-E1711]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES FOR 25 YEARS OF COMMITTED 
                        SERVICE TO GOD'S PEOPLE

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. MADELEINE Z. BORDALLO

                                of guam

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 23, 2004

  Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I want to honor the Catholic Social 
Services (CSS) for 25 years of committed service to the people of Guam. 
For over two decades, the CSS has responded to the needs of our island 
community through housing, health care, nutritional and other support 
programs for the elderly and disadvantaged in our community. In doing 
so, it has fulfilled its mission to encourage the development of the 
spiritual, intellectual, economic, and social well-being of those in 
need while respecting the dignity of each individual.
  Founded by Fr. David I.A. Quitugua with the assistance of Judge Ramon 
Diaz and the late Archbishop Felixberto C. Flores, the Catholic Social 
Services opened its doors on September 12, 1979 in Agana, Guam. From 
its first programs, the residential Drug Treatment Center and the 
Migration and Refugee Office to the many programs they currently 
administer, the Catholic Social Services continues to expand to meet 
the growing needs of our community. Programs such as the In-Home 
Services Program have provided much needed respite and support services 
for caretakers of the elderly and to elderly individuals without 
caretakers. Other programs, including the Alee Shelters and Guma 
Sagrada Familia, have provided a safe haven for victims of abuse 
especially women, children, the elderly and adults with disabilities. 
The Guma San Jose shelters and the Liheng Transitional Housing Program 
provide shelter to homeless individuals and families as well as 
assistance in obtaining permanent housing. The Caridad programs provide 
much needed assistance to children and adults with special needs.
  The accomplishments of the Catholic Social Services over the last 25 
years would not have been possible without the work of dedicated staff 
and volunteers, past and present. I want to commend each of them for 
their commitment to serving the less fortunate in our community. I 
would also like to commend

[[Page E1711]]

the leadership of CSS over the years, Fr. David Quitugua, Sr. Anita, 
Mrs. Cerila M. Rapadas, and Sr. Callista Camacho, R.S.M. Together they 
have brought hope to those in need.
  I want to recognize Archbishop Anthony S. Apuron and the Archdiocese 
of Agana for the continued support of the mission of the Catholic 
Social Services. Furthermore, I would also like to recognize the 
generosity of the donors and benefactors of the Catholic Social 
Services. Their contributions have made it possible for CSS to continue 
its work and I encourage their continued support.
  I want to congratulate the Catholic Social Services on their 25th 
Anniversary. Although I cannot be with them as they celebrate the 
occasion, I want to thank them for their service to our people and wish 
them continued success. Un Dangkulu na Si Yu'os Ma'ase!

                          ____________________