On the recordDecember 15, 2011
In closing, I would just yield myself such time as I may consume to say that I am pleased that we are moving forward to extend this program, at least until the end of next September. But there remains much work to do. Many of our neighbors are in great need at the present time. Many are supported by churches, community nonprofits, and the like. It is a valuable service at a time of charity at Christmas when we all care about those who are the least among us. But just caring in that fashion is not sufficient, given the extent of the problem. We need a stronger safety net with reference to health care, child care, the support that is offered through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, and to help those--yes, pull them up by their boots; but for those who lack bootstraps, assist them as well. That should be the goal of our vision as we address the needs of the many impoverished people in this country. Unfortunately, poor people have the least voice in this Congress. Their voice is not heard to the extent that some of those who have vested interests here in limousines and lobbyists are heard. But we need to speak up for them. And this is one of those rare opportunities to be able to do so and to say that this Congress has acted; but it's acted in a modest, limited, incomplete, and inadequate way. We would not hold up that little bit of help, but there is so much more that needs to be done. I yield back the balance of my time.
