Speech #1090104427

Mr. Speaker. I rise to acknowledge and honor Catholic Charities of San Joses 25th anniversary of its refugee resettlement programs. Less than 1 percent of the refugees in camps are accepted by Western countries for resettlement. Refugees who have already suffered unthinkable crimes and injustices are often forced to wait in camps for as long as 10 years before being interviewed for consideration. The very lucky few who are accepted for immigration to the United States often arrive with little to no money. few. if any. family and only the hope and dream of a better life. To ease this very difficult transition. Catholic Charities meets these refugees at the airport and begins the resettlement process immediately. They and their team of committed volunteers provide financial support for housing. food. clothing and other necessities. medical care. case management and independent living skills training such as budgeting skills. housing assistance and food preparation. In their 25 years of dedication and hard work. over 20.000 refugees have been assisted in their quest to build a better life for themselves and their future generations. Catholic Charities of San Jose provides these valuable services at no cost to the immigrant. This program is one of many that Catholic Charities provides in its overall vision of transforming lives. This wonderful organization strives to empower meaningful. quality living through economic. familial and emotional stability.