[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 170 (Wednesday, September 29, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1044-E1045]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FRIENDS ASSOCIATION FOR CHILDREN

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                     HON. ABIGAIL DAVIS SPANBERGER

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 29, 2021

  Ms. SPANBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the FRIENDS 
Association for Children on their 150th anniversary of service to 
Central Virginia.
  The FRIENDS Association for Children first began in 1871 as an 
orphanage in the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood of Richmond, 
Virginia. Today, it operates two multi-service licensed child 
development centers in the Richmond area, which offer exceptional care 
and education to children ages six weeks to 12 years of age in a safe, 
nurturing, and enriching environment. A broad array of services allows 
children to gain critical literacy and developmental skills needed to 
succeed in school and in life--including family support services, 
developmental childcare, youth development, music and performing arts, 
and health education. Through these programs, FRIENDS responds 
wholistically to the needs of families,

[[Page E1045]]

prepares children to succeed in their academic and life goals, and 
helps children to achieve a greater understanding and appreciation of 
their community and the world around them.
  For a century and a half, the FRIENDS Association for Children has 
touched countless lives through their mission to serve Virginia's 
children and families. I am grateful for the tireless and selfless work 
of the many volunteers and staff at FRIENDS who have provided vital, 
compassionate care to our children and families over the years. Their 
commitment is inspiring and deserving of commendation and celebration.
  Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring the 150th anniversary of 
the FRIENDS Association for Children.

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