[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 95 (Wednesday, June 18, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1013]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  30TH ANNIVERSARY OF LOAVES & FISHES

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BILL FOSTER

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 18, 2014

  Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Loaves & 
Fishes 7th annual Day Without Hunger. Over the past thirty years, the 
Loaves & Fishes team has been committed to providing a hand up to those 
most in need in DuPage County with food assistance and other services.
  This organization has grown exponentially in size and scope in order 
to realize their vision of ending hunger in DuPage County. In 1984, the 
year of their founding, the Loaves & Fishes team assisted eight 
households in the Naperville area, providing them with food to sustain 
their families. Today, Loaves & Fishes has expanded to serve all of 
DuPage County, helping thousands of families. Last year alone, Loaves & 
Fishes distributed over 3,200,000 pounds of food, serving 18,564 
individuals.
  The Loaves & Fishes team has helped close the gap for children who 
rely on school food services. Since 2004, they have assisted with 
school nutrition programs, ensuring that Naperville students get meals 
during the summer months. Additionally, breakfast assistance programs 
which they support give students a proper meal to start the school day.
  In addition to food assistance, Loaves & Fishes has expanded to do 
even more to support the community. Since 2011, Loaves & Fishes has 
supported Pathways to Empowerment programs which provide assistance 
with various services, from health care enrollment to support in 
starting a job search.
  The Loaves & Fishes team not only provides food for those in need, 
but they also provide an opportunity for individuals to serve their 
friends and neighbors by volunteering. Truly, this organization 
empowers both recipients and volunteers.
  Today, I am proud to recognize Loaves & Fishes for the invaluable 
service the organization has provided and the thousands of lives they 
have touched.

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