[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 56 (Thursday, April 2, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E881-E882]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING LABOR OF LOVE OF HENDERSON COUNTY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JEB HENSARLING

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 2, 2009

  Mr. HENSARLING. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
outstanding service that Labor of Love provides the communities in 
Henderson County, Texas.
  The Athens Samaritans was formed as a precursor to Labor of Love in 
1986 when members of the First Christian Church of Athens went to 
Amarillo to help with a Habitat for Humanity project. Members became 
energized about founding their own organization locally that would help 
with housing for the disadvantaged. The group decided to focus on 
repairing existing homes and thus organized the Labor of Love in 1987.
  Since that time, the First Presbyterian Church, First United 
Methodist Church and First Baptist Church joined the effort and helped 
expand the organization. Labor of Love now has 12 project managers who 
recruit workers from dozens of volunteers.
  In 2008 alone, Labor of Love completed 231 projects in Henderson 
County. The organization's efforts are supported with resources from 
the Henderson County United Way, the Cain Foundation and the Murchison 
Foundation, as well as other foundations, churches, businesses and 
individuals. Labor of Love also sponsors paint projects for groups such 
as the Boy Scouts, Young Life, 4-H, church groups and businesses.
  This organization provides an invaluable service to those in the 
community who truly need assistance. Over the years, hundreds of 
individuals and families have been blessed by the men and women of 
Labor of Love.
  As the Congressman for the Fifth District of Texas, I am pleased 
today to recognize the Labor of Love for their contributions to 
Henderson County. To all the men and women who give of their time and 
efforts so generously, on behalf of all the constituents of the Fifth 
District, I would like to extend our most sincere gratitude.

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