[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E356]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CONGRATULATING THE ROCKFORD RESCUE MISSION ON THEIR 50TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. CHERI BUSTOS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 11, 2014

  Mrs. BUSTOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Rockford 
Rescue Mission in Rockford, Illinois, on the occasion of its 50th 
anniversary.
   Rockford Rescue Mission first opened in 1964 with a sign on the door 
reading ``All are welcome here. The alcoholic, the addict, the 
stranger, the sojourner, the pilgrim, the poor. There is hope for all 
who enter here.'' Over the last 50 years, Rockford Rescue Mission has 
continued to open its doors to those in our community who need help, 
operating 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. The Mission offers meals, 
short term housing, and prevention and recovery services for 
addictions, abuse and destructive relations.
   In one year, Rockford Rescue Mission provides almost 60,000 nights 
of lodging and over 160,000 meals, as well as more than 10,000 
counseling sessions to people all across northern Illinois. The Mission 
relies on private donations and support from over 500 volunteers 
annually providing almost 45,000 hours of service.
   Mr. Speaker, I again congratulate Rockford Rescue Mission for 
reaching this impressive milestone. I want to thank them for their 
incredible efforts over the past 50 years and their continued 
dedication to providing services to those in need in our community.