[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 12]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 15682]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




               IN SUPPORT OF HOMES FOR HEROES ACT OF 2009

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 18, 2009

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, one of the most important duties we have as a 
nation is the commitment to taking care of the men and women who have 
served their country in the Armed Forces. I am proud to cosponsor H.R. 
403, The Homes for Heroes Act of 2009 to help aid homeless veterans.
  This legislation will unlock important tools to combat the ongoing 
challenges of homelessness within the ranks of our poorest veterans. 
The VA estimates that 154,000 veterans are homeless on any given night, 
accounting for about a quarter of the total number of homeless 
individuals.
  My district, Fresno in particular, has a large homeless population. 
Many are veterans who would benefit from the implementation of the 
programs in this legislation. This bill will unlock important tools to 
combat the ongoing challenges of homelessness within the ranks of our 
poorest veterans. At-risk veterans live with lingering effects of Post 
Traumatic Stress Disorder and substance abuse, compounded by a lack of 
family and social support networks.
  No matter how many urgent problems face our Nation, we must never 
forget those who put their lives on the line to defend the United 
States. Their uniformed service is a testament to the common values of 
sacrifice, honor, and patriotism we all share.
  It is my hope that this legislation will find swift passage in the 
Senate, and be signed into law by President Obama in an expedient 
manner. I urge an ``aye'' vote.

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