[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 188 (Tuesday, October 26, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1146-E1147]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING THE CAREER OF JOSIE BACALLAO

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. DEBBIE WASSERMAN SCHULTZ

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 26, 2021

  Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that 
I rise to recognize the tremendous career and meaningful work of Josie 
Bacallao, President & CEO of Hispanic Unity of Florida.
  Founded 39 years ago as a haven for immigrants and refugees, Hispanic 
Unity of Florida has grown to serve diverse and multi-cultural working 
families from the United States as well as more than 25 other 
countries.
  Under Ms. Bacallao's leadership, the agency provides a range of wrap-
around services to help more than 16,000 clients of all ages, from 
preschoolers to adults, successfully transition to a productive new 
life.
  Hispanic Unity of Florida acts as South Florida's ``Ellis Island'' 
for new immigrants arriving in South Florida. Often arriving with 
little more than the clothes on their backs, a few dollars in pocket 
change, with no job, language, skills or understanding of the life that 
awaits them on America's shores--they still come with hopes and dreams.
  And Josie works tirelessly to guarantee everyone is empowered to live 
their American Dream.
  Her commitment to strengthening the physical and financial health and 
wellness of Florida's families is extensive, impressive, and inspiring.
  Josie Bacallao is a selfless, compassionate, and thoughtful citizen 
whose commitment to our community is exemplary, and I am proud to call 
her my dear friend. I wish her a hearty congratulations on her 
retirement and am grateful for her invaluable work to improve the lives 
of those in Florida's 23rd Congressional District and beyond.

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