[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 134 (Thursday, August 20, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E796]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING THE REFUGE CAFE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BRITTANY PETTERSEN

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, August 20, 2026

  Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate The Refuge 
Cafe on the 20th anniversary of their supportive housing community in 
Broomfield.
  For over two decades, The Refuge Cafe has uplifted vulnerable 
community-members who were struggling with substance use disorder, 
homelessness, and mental health. It first opened its doors in 2006 and 
today serves an estimated 1,000 community members every month. Their 
holistic work is a cornerstone of the Broomfield community, providing a 
safe place to rest, access to local resources, free lunches, Wi-Fi, 
showers, and hygiene supplies for our friends and neighbors in need. 
The Refuge is dedicated to serving individuals in the community by 
providing access to resources and offering a sense of belonging.
  Having grown up as an at-risk youth, I know that healthcare is more 
than just access to services and economic stability--it is also about 
human connection. The Refuge intentionally cultivates this human 
connection in their community, fostering trauma-informed care that 
facilitates lasting recovery.
  On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it 
is my honor to congratulate The Refuge Cafe on celebrating 20 years of 
``holding hope and building dreams,'' as they continue to deliver 
integrated healthcare services to our community.

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