Recognizing Arts Saving Hearts

Floor Speech

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Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Bilva Vedamurthy and the organization he started, Arts Saving Hearts.

Bilva is a student at Monte Vista High School in Danville, California, and the founder of Arts Saving Hearts. Inspired by his love of learning and discovery, Bilva started Arts Saving Hearts during the COVID-19 pandemic to help artists in our community learn new skills and to promote a self-sustaining lifestyle. Arts Saving Hearts works with local artists to showcase and sell their work, with 100 percent of proceeds going toward helping disadvantaged communities around the world. The organization has received art from students, teachers, and professional artists from all over the Bay Area. Thanks to the contributions of these local artists, Bilva has been able to raise money to support COVID-19 victims and others in need in our community.

The organization works with a variety of local nonprofits and businesses. Bilva has worked extensively with the Edgewood Center for Children and Families in San Francisco to help provide mental health services to children. Arts Saving Hearts also works with Plaza Chiropractor, Indian Red Cross Residential School for Hearing-impaired Kids, and other community partners to support underserved groups. Bilva's work has been instrumental in supporting our community's youth and in helping to connect young people with necessary mental health resources and treatment.

Please join me in honoring Bilva Vedamurthy and Arts Saving Hearts for their important work.

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