[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 72 (Tuesday, May 12, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E672]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




IN RECOGNITION OF THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ESTABLISHMENT OF LUZERNE 
                           COUNTY HEAD START

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                           HON. LOU BARLETTA

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 12, 2015

  Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to help commemorate the 
50th Anniversary of the establishment of Luzerne County Head Start, 
which provides my constituents with valuable services in early 
childhood education and family development. The organization plays a 
vital role within our community, and I am thankful for its work.
   Luzerne County Head Start has offered crucial aid to children and 
families since its inception in 1965. The program has worked tirelessly 
to provide 1,162 children in Luzerne and Wyoming Counties with an 
environment that is favorable to early academic development. Last 
month, I enjoyed spending time at the Hazleton Head Start Center, and 
was impressed with the students and faculty I met. The three and four 
year olds were excited to read and engage in their class science 
project. They are learning the skills that will help them to succeed in 
kindergarten. Additionally, Head Start strives to encourage similar 
standards in healthy physical development. Members of the Head Start 
faculty educate their students about comprehensive health and 
nutrition, supplying them with information that will increase their 
well-being.
   In addition to placing an emphasis on early childhood development, 
Luzerne County Head Start also focuses on strengthening families. In 
order to assist them in achieving greater self-sufficiency, the 
organization provides families with a wide array of services, including 
housing, employment, and education. Notably, Head Start offers support 
to parents interested in attaining a high school General Equivalency 
Diploma as well as other education and employment opportunities, all of 
which go a long way in ensuring brighter futures for parents and their 
children.
   Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to honor Luzerne County Head Start as 
it celebrates its 50th Anniversary, and I commend the work that its 
faculty undertakes in order to serve the children and families of 
Luzerne and Wyoming Counties.

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