[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 98 (Monday, June 9, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E544]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         RECOGNIZING SUSAN PUGH

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, June 9, 2025

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding 
contributions that Ms. Susan Pugh has made to our community through her 
volunteerism with the Pregnancy & Family Life Center. Ms. Pugh 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. Pugh also 
takes donated blankets which can't be used for infants or children to 
the local animal shelter along with donated dog food. 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 Susan Pugh 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.

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