[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 64 (Monday, May 16, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E984]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 IN HONOR AND RECOGNITION OF BRIAN DAVIS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR NORTHEAST 
                    OHIO COALITION FOR THE HOMELESS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS. J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 16, 2005

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of 
Brian Davis, executive director of the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the 
Homeless (NEOCH), for his activism and dedication on behalf of the 
homeless women, men and children of our community.
  For the past decade, Mr. Davis has fought in the interests of justice 
and hope for Northeast Ohio's most vulnerable citizens living on the 
streets. Mr. Davis' unwavering energy, compassion and focus has given a 
voice to those whose voices have been silenced by poverty and 
hopelessness. For the past ten years, he has edited The Grapevine, a 
publication that has provided an income and a communications medium for 
hundreds of homeless people.
  Under Mr. Davis' leadership, NEOCH has helped obtain permanent 
housing for more than 425 people; provided 150 voice mailboxes for 
homeless individuals; provided legal assistance for nearly 900 people; 
and provided 5,800 people social services and empowerment through the 
Homeless Stand Down.
  Beyond Cleveland's local scene, Mr. Davis has been a powerful voice 
for the homeless on Capitol Hill and at the State House in Columbus. He 
testified before the Government Reform Committee at my request to speak 
of the need for the Passport program for homeless men at a time when 
its funding was threatened. Mr. Davis was a guiding force and active 
participant in my Homelessness Summit, an advisory group with more than 
200 Cleveland area activists working to end homelessness and advise me 
on legislative proposals. His energy extended to Columbus, where he 
worked with a state coalition to secure a revenue source for the Ohio 
Housing Trust Fund.
  Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition 
of Brian Davis, the tireless leader of the Northeast Ohio Coalition for 
the Homeless. His advocacy on behalf of the homeless citizens, the 
formerly homeless, and those at risk in the community continues to 
offer protection, guidance and empowerment. Because of the dedication 
and focus of Mr. Davis, the lives of hundreds of homeless people have 
been lifted into the light of positive change and hope for a brighter 
tomorrow.

                          ____________________