[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 168 (Monday, September 27, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1027]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           HONORING ANN AWALT

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. FILEMON VELA

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 27, 2021

  Mr. VELA. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor a key leader and 
transformative figure in South Texas, Ann Awalt. Ann has over four 
decades of first-hand experience in developing rural community service 
systems and has dedicated her time and leadership to the people of 
South Texas. Her service and passion for her work is reflected in the 
lasting impact she has had on TX-34 communities and families.
  Ann Awalt is a South Texas native, where she attended The University 
of Texas at Austin and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political 
Science and Government. She went on to develop several rural service 
systems, including the Community Action Corporation of South Texas 
(CACOST) and its network of resources. Ann then attended graduate 
school at The University of Texas at Arlington and graduated with a 
Master of Public Administration.
  Ann is now the Executive Director of CACOST, which serves South 
Texans in 17 counties by providing an integrated range of health and 
human services. The network includes federally qualified health 
centers, child and family development services through Head Start and 
Early Childhood Intervention, and community services for nutrition, 
housing, and energy assistance.
  In 2013, Ann strongly advocated for the funding of Head Start, a 
federally subsidized program that provides traditionally underserved 
children from birth through age five, with meals, educational programs, 
and other services to build a solid foundation as these children head 
into their school years. In 2020, over 4,200 children benefited from 
Head Start programs in TX-34. The program also includes senior 
nutritional services, which provide elderly residents home-delivered 
meals; and last year served nearly 16,000 persons through their 
Federally Qualified Health Center and assisted over 13,000 persons with 
utility assistance. Her hands-on leadership and commitment to her 
community has helped CACOST secure funding from contracts and grants at 
the federal and state levels, including those available through the 
Head Start model, which have enriched the lives of seniors, children 
and families.
  This past year, Ann led the Community Action Agency's response 
efforts to the challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic. Alongside a team 
of medical experts, she set up six clinics around the Coastal Bend to 
provide lifesaving vaccines and COVID-19 tests for the region. Her 
perseverance led to over 22,000 vaccinations administered by CACOST. 
Ann's collaboration with community partners in the Coastal Bend ensure 
that these vital health and nutritional services will continue to be 
available to those living throughout South Texas. Ann also represents 
South Texas as a member of the Texas Association of Community Action 
Agencies, serving on both the Executive Committee and the Legislative 
Committee.
  Ann Awalt is truly a pillar of determination who exemplifies selfless 
service and dedication to her community. She continues to foster growth 
and action, while advocating for the people who need it most. It is 
clear that Ann Awalt is deeply invested in the people of South Texas 
and we cannot thank her enough for her service.

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