The publication is reproduced in full below:
RECOGNIZING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF CORNERSTONES
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HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY
of virginia
in the house of representatives
Friday, November 5, 2021
Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the 50th Anniversary of Cornerstones.
Established in 1970 to address the need for affordable housing, Cornerstones has grown to become a significant human services provider and advocate for those struggling to make ends meet in Northern Virginia. Over the years, Cornerstones' scope of programs and number of clients has continued to grow. Cornerstones has expanded to cover most of northwestern Fairfax County and has been able to help more than 16,000 neighbors each year who need housing, childcare, food, or financial assistance.
Cornerstones promotes self-sufficiency by providing support and advocacy for those in need of food, shelter, affordable housing, quality childcare, and other human services. The wrap-around services- provided by Cornerstones not only addresses the immediate needs of their clients, but also help provide the support needed for individuals and families to break the cycle of poverty or homelessness and begin their journey to independence and self-sufficiency. Cornerstones continues to envision a community that values all people and shares resources and services to empower those in need.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Cornerstones has continued to provide vital services and programs to the most vulnerable in our community that have been hit hard by COVID-19. With adjustments to in-
person services to engage people safely, and a new focus on virtual programs, Cornerstones has been able to continue making a positive impact.
There were drastic increases in the number of individuals and families seeking assistance from the Cornerstones' Food Pantry, as well as their other services such as their youth programs, community and neighborhood resources, and housing counseling programs. Cornerstones was able to rise to the challenge and meet the demand with their dedicated staff and volunteers.
Cornerstones emphasizes the importance of stability, empowerment, and hope through their work in Fairfax County. Their commitment and resilience throughout the past 50 years, and especially throughout the pandemic, serves as a beacon of inspiration for our county as we continue to work to address the systemic inequities and barriers that exist for so many.
Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Cornerstones for their 50th anniversary, and I sincerely thank their employees and volunteers who give their time and energy on behalf of our community. Their efforts provide immeasurable benefits to their fellow neighbors and serve as a reminder of why Fairfax County remains such a great place to live, work, and raise a family.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 195
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