[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 131 (Monday, August 10, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E780]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           RECOGNIZING THE UNITED WAY OF ST. FRANCOIS COUNTY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JASON SMITH

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, August 10, 2026

  Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to praise The United 
Way of St. Francois County for working to help its neighbors in need 
for 30 years.
  Established in 1995 as the ``Farmington United Fund,'' the group 
expanded its reach in 1996 and changed its name. Since then, The United 
Way of St. Francois County has brought hope and help by funding local 
agencies that meet basic needs. From food pantries and senior centers 
to homeless shelters and backpack programs, the United Way has met the 
most basic human needs of food, shelter, health, education and social 
welfare services.
  The United Way raises money through local fundraisers like Derby Day 
and Dine Out for United Way. The annual bell-ringing campaign brings 
the community together for more than 900 hours to ring bells at wishing 
wells throughout the county, drawing attention to the organization's 
mission and taking donations during the holiday season. This year, The 
United Way of St. Francois County provided more than $98,000 in grants 
to 24 local nonprofit groups.
  Since its founding, the United Way has been governed by a board of 
community leaders, which now includes its president, Leigh Ragsdale, 
and Executive Director, Ken Curfman.
  It is my privilege to congratulate The United Way of St. Francois 
County as it celebrates 30 years of serving the needs of its neighbors 
and reflecting the best in community spirit today before the United 
States House of Representatives.

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