Recognizing Barbara Sprague

Floor Speech

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Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Ms. Barbara Sprague has made to our community through her work with the Community Food Bank, leading the charge in our fight against food insecurity. Since Barbara joined the organization, her leadership, tenacity, and compassion for those in need have led the Community Food Bank to grow from supplying 1-2 million meals each year to over 5 million nutritious meals and critical supplies to fill the meal gap and basic needs for over 70,000 of our neighbors in need. She has taught the entire team to ``BELIEVE that they will end hunger because they are BETTER TOGETHER!'' With Barbara's continued vision and drive to end hunger, the Community Food Bank is embarking on an expansion that will not only double its impact capacity but will add a tremendous outreach opportunity for all service organizations and providers to meet our most at-risk clients right where they are with their programs and critical support as we work together to dismantle the pillars of poverty.

The RISE Empowerment Center and Food Bank targets the specific needs of residents with the collaborative power of our most effective resources. Barbara's vision, outstanding leadership, and unyielding drive to make a true difference not only make her a hero in her organization's mission, but she is also a community treasure.

It is clear that Barbara Sprague has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

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