Ehrlich on Washington column, December 25, 2000

1 407 York Road, Suite 304 Lutherville, Maryland 21093 NEWS FROM Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. Second Congressional District of Maryland 315 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 205 1 5 EHRLICH ON WASHINGTON By Congressman Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. Week of December 25, 2000 A Season of Giving, A Season of Thanks While I am thankful for the prosperity our country enjoys as a whole, I know government can only do so much. For instance, this year, we succeeded in paying down the national debt, investing more in education and medical research, strengthening Medicare and Social Security, and providing for renewal and revitalization for urban and rural communities. However, even with the responsible budgeting of the Republican-led Congress teaming with the hard work of the American people to power our nation’s economy, many Americans have not been as fortunate as those of us looking to the promise of a bright holiday season. These individuals and families continue to struggle under difficult circumstances and strapping financial hardships. Today, an estimated 3,000 people in the Baltimore region are homeless. Many of these same folks are battling drug abuse. Several civic minded citizens have organized efforts to combat the harshness and pain of homelessness. One such effort is The Helping Up Mission, a 1 15-year-old nonprofit, faith-based organization dedicated to serving their spiritual, psychological, and physical needs. This past week, my staff and I enjoyed the opportunity to volunteer at The Helping Up Mission, located in downtown Baltimore. While I have visited this mission several times in the past, this seasonal visit was especially meaningful. Volunteering allowed me to appreciate the incredible work faith-based organizations perform for local communities throughout America and particularly in Baltimore. Operated by Bob Gehman, the Mission first addresses the basic physical needs of the homeless. Each year, it provides well over 150,000 meals and 55,000 beds to the homeless and poor in Baltimore; each day the Mission helps more than 140 resident members and 60 homeless guests. The Mission, however, offers more than respite from a cold winter’s night, food, clothes, and a chapel service. The Mission provides an original year-long path for drug addicted and dependent men to overcome their addiction, start a new life, and develop lasting healthy career, family, church, and community relationships. Gladly, the results speak for themselves: 65% of the program’s graduates stay drug free and reverse the decline that had taken over their lives. They have new life skills, GED certification, and jobs.