[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 94 (Tuesday, June 3, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E508]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING PATRICIA FURLONG

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 3, 2025

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding 
contributions that Ms. Patricia Furlong has made to our community 
through her volunteerism with the Pregnancy & Family Life Center. Ms. 
Furlong is part of a team of selfless and dedicated women who have 
worked at the Center in Inverness for several years. Their roles 
include working each week in the food pantry and clothing room. Last 
year, 472 clients were served, and more than 65,000 pounds of food was 
distributed. These critical volunteers also ensure families receive 
essential items for their infants and young children to include: 
formula, diapers, pull ups, baby wipes and wash, as well as age 
specific clothing. In 2024, more than 44,000 diapers and 9,500 items of 
clothing were distributed. These volunteers have a `can do' attitude no 
matter how large the challenge.
  They also have tremendous teamwork. They sort through all donations, 
retain those appropriate for a pregnancy center and then share other 
serviceable items with community partners. Ms. Furlong also visits the 
Center each weekend when the facility is closed to check the donation 
box and bring donated items inside to ensure they reach the intended 
recipients. When volunteers are united in an important mission, it 
naturally fosters camaraderie which is great for anyone who works or 
volunteers at the Center. All of these women maintain a loving demeanor 
and greet each client with a warm smile and conversation (and sometimes 
a hug). The Center's clients feel welcomed and cared for because of the 
lived values of love, respect, compassion, and family centeredness that 
is regularly displayed by these dedicated volunteers. The benefit to 
the community is great and the impact far reaching.
  It is clear that Patricia Furlong has made a profoundly positive 
impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all 
strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

                          ____________________