[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 76 (Wednesday, May 7, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E401]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       RECOGNIZING JORDAN FRENCH

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 7, 2025

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding 
contributions that Jordan French has made through his work with the 
Pasco County Human Services Team. The Pasco County Human Services Team 
has proven itself to be a cornerstone of resilience, innovation, and 
unwavering commitment to the community. Amidst the devastating impacts 
of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, they emerged as an indispensable 
force, transforming challenges into triumphs and ensuring no resident 
was left behind. The team managed and helped coordinate efforts for 
shelters that housed 485 residents. When Hurricane Milton struck 
shortly thereafter, the team rose to even greater heights, coordinating 
shelters for 5,800 individuals and 1,315 animals--an extraordinary feat 
of operational precision and compassion. Despite personal hardships, 
including one case manager losing her home while another lost her 
rental property, the team prioritized the welfare of the community, 
working tirelessly to ensure safety and stability for all. Post-storm, 
the team was responsible for helping shelter residents whose homes were 
no longer safe, find appropriate alternatives for housing. Their 
dedication shone through in rapid response efforts. In the days 
immediately following Hurricane Helene, 49 residents received critical 
assessments and essential resources. After Hurricane Milton, they 
worked with 225 displaced individuals who remained in shelters, 
demonstrating their unparalleled ability to adapt and respond under 
pressure. The team leveraged the Human Services Needs app to streamline 
disaster case management, supporting 1,351 residents. Their follow-up 
system, in partnership with other agencies, ensured personalized 
service for every individual. This innovative approach epitomized their 
ability to harness technology and partnerships for meaningful impact. 
Beyond immediate relief, the team worked with individuals and families 
who would require long-term recovery efforts. For approximately 150 
permanently displaced residents, they implemented a housing eligibility 
process, with the intent of ensuring fair and transparent allocation of 
resources. By securing placements at facilities like Pasco Hope, the 
team supported individuals and families along a pathway to rebuild 
their lives. Between September 28 and October 18, 2024, the team 
managed an overwhelming volume of calls--1,194 through their direct 
line and another 1,214 through work phones. Yet every call was met with 
care, professionalism, and actionable solutions, reflecting the team's 
deep commitment to being a lifeline for the community. The Pasco County 
Human Services Team exemplifies what it means to serve with excellence, 
compassion, and innovation. Their remarkable achievements during 
Hurricanes Helene and Milton, coupled with their dedication to long-
term recovery and cutting-edge approaches to disaster management, have 
left an indelible mark on Pasco County. For their tireless service, 
extraordinary impact, and embodiment of resilience, the Pasco County 
Human Services Team is a truly deserving nominee for the Heros Among Us 
Award.
  It is clear Jordan French has made a profoundly positive impact on 
our community, and I am grateful for his service. May we all strive to 
serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

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