[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 152 (Thursday, September 24, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E977]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING FLOOD MINISTRIES

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. DAVID G. VALADAO

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 24, 2026

  Mr. VALADAO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Flood Ministries 
on its 20th anniversary and to honor years of steadfast service to the 
most underserved members of the Kern County community.
  In 2006, dedicated volunteers from The Bridge Bible Church gathered 
to establish Flood Ministries under the belief that every person 
experiencing homelessness should be treated with dignity and respect. 
For the past 20 years, Flood has put that belief into action, providing 
quality care and support to people of all ages and backgrounds.
  Through several key partnerships, Flood has expanded its reach 
throughout Bakersfield and Kern County. Working with the Bakersfield-
Kern Regional Homeless Collaborative and the Housing Authority of the 
County of Kern, it has provided personalized case management and 
housing services for homeless individuals struggling with severe mental 
and physical health challenges. Flood has also partnered with Kern 
Behavioral Health and Recovery Services, the County of Kern, Kern 
Health Systems, and the Bakersfield-Kern Regional Homeless 
Collaborative to establish Navigation Centers throughout the Central 
Valley. These centers offer dedicated housing support that helps 
individuals find and transition into permanent homes. Flood also works 
with local leaders and first responders to connect people in need with 
critical services.
  For two decades, Flood has taken a hands-on approach to addressing 
homelessness. Its Welcome Home project provides vital household items 
to help turn empty spaces into safe and dignified homes, while its 
mobile and fixed shower services provide an important resource for 
people in need. These efforts, strengthened by Flood's partnerships 
throughout the community, have helped maintain a 90 percent longterm 
housing retention rate. Today, Flood is focused on early intervention 
through its Bakersfield and Rural Youth Homeless Demonstration 
Programs, providing personalized care to vulnerable young adults and 
stopping chronic homelessness before it takes root.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to 
join me in congratulating Flood Ministries on 20 years of dedicated 
service to the people of Kern County and in wishing it continued 
success for years to come.

                          ____________________