In Recognition of Sister Mary Paul Janchill, D.S.W.
IN RECOGNITION OF SISTER MARY PAUL JANCHILL, D.S.W. -- (Extensions of Remarks - May 12, 2004)
SPEECH OF
HON. NYDIA M. VELÁZQUEZ
OF NEW YORK
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
WEDNESDAY, MAY 12, 2004
Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize the achievements of Sister Mary Paul Janchill, D.S.W., a tireless advocate for the rights of children and families, and one of the cofounders of the Center for Family Life in Sunset Park, Brooklyn.
For more than 50 years, Sister Mary Paul has been a pioneer and influential leader in child welfare. Sunset Park is a diverse, low-income neighborhood in Brooklyn, and almost a third of the population there is under the age of 18. Sister Mary Paul, a long-time advocate and leader in the fight for the rights of children and families, took her passion and strength, and cofounded the Center for Family Life.
Over the past 25 years, Sister Mary Paul has continued her work and dedication to meeting the needs of families that live in the financially distressed area of Sunset Park through her work at the center. She has continued the fight for low-income children and teenagers, especially those who are at risk of being swept into the social welfare system. The Center for Family Life offers services and advocacy to its clients, and already has two films, one of which received a 2003 Academy Award, that are based on its dedication and commitment to the community.
Sister Mary Paul, among her endless positive contributions, helped to modify the evaluation processes used by child welfare agencies and the family court system. She encourages people to view troubled teens as works in progress. Sister Mary Paul truly changes lives-individuals who have completed their programs later find themselves in leadership positions throughout the community. Her work is priceless, and is constantly felt by the significant number of youth, and families, that she reaches out to each and everyday.
Therefore, Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sister Mary Paul Janchill, and join with my colleagues in the House of Representatives to recognize her extraordinary work in helping New York City's less privileged children and families.