[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 97 (Friday, June 6, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E538]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF GWEN WATSON

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MARK DeSAULNIER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, June 6, 2025

  Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and 
service of Gwen Watson.
  Throughout her life, Gwen was committed to serving vulnerable 
populations and empowering community members. She began her career as 
an educator, working with high school students in her home state of 
Louisiana who were interested in pursuing vocational careers. After 
moving to the San Francisco Bay Area, Gwen remained focused on giving 
back to her community. She was a part of St. Vincent de Paul's Advisory 
Task Force, working to serve Contra Costa County's homeless population. 
Driven by her faith and her dedication to service, Gwen helped to 
provide rental assistance and other critical resources to unhoused 
individuals through St. Vincent de Paul's mobile homeless shelter. That 
program has grown into what is known today as the St. Vincent de Paul 
Hope Conference.
  Additionally, Gwen was a member of the Interfaith Council of Contra 
Costa County and cofounded the Winter Nights program. This program aims 
to break the cycle of homelessness by providing shelter, food, 
childcare, and other key services to unhoused families. Through this 
program, Gwen helped countless Contra Costa families to get back on 
their feet and to have access to the resources they need in order to 
thrive.
  Furthermore, Gwen served as President of the League of Women Voters 
of Diablo Valley. In this role, she oversaw the ``You Don't Need a Home 
to Vote'' project, which worked to increase civic engagement from 
unhoused and low-income individuals and help them register to vote. 
Gwen's fierce commitment to advocacy and social justice was evident to 
all who knew her.
  Sadly, Gwen passed away in May 2025. She will be remembered for her 
compassion, unwavering commitment to service, and her deep love for 
this community. Please join me in honoring Gwen Watson for her 
invaluable contributions to our community.

                          ____________________