Joseph Knollenberg: “I would like to join my Michigan colleagues in rising in support of House Concurrent Resolution 295, which congratulates…”

“I would like to join my Michigan colleagues in rising in support of House Concurrent Resolution 295, which congratulates and salutes Focus: HOPE on its 35th anniversary. Focus: HOPE, located in Detroit, is the result of the vision of Father William T. Cunningham and Eleanor Josaitis, who were compelled to make a difference as the 1967 riot left metropolitan Detroit sharply divided along racial lines. Ever since, Focus: HOPE has been committed to bringing together people of all races, faiths, and economic backgrounds. In short, the accomplishments of this organization are nothing short of remarkable. For example, Focus: HOPE helped to conceive and develop the Department of Agriculture's Commodity Supplemental Food Program, which has been replicated in 32 states. Through this program, Focus: HOPE helps feed 43,000 people monthly throughout Southeast Michigan. Additionally, Focus: HOPE has revitalized several city blocks in central Detroit by redeveloping obsolete industrial buildings, beautifying and landscaping Oakman Boulevard, creating pocket parks, and rehabilitating homes in the surrounding areas. For these reasons, as a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, I have been pleased to assist Focus: HOPE over the past several years. Their growing list of accomplishments fills me with pride and I will continue to support them in future years.”