RECOGNIZING MS. CATHY TATUM

RECOGNIZING MS. CATHY TATUM

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 57 (Thursday, March 26, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 57 (Thursday, March 26, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E275] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING MS. CATHY TATUM ______ HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS of florida in the house of representatives Thursday, March 26, 2026 Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize one of my outstanding constituents, Ms. Cathy Tatum, a dedicated volunteer whose steadfast commitment, compassion, and hard work have made a profound difference through Seniors in Service AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP Pasco. Since joining in 2024, Cathy has become one of those dependable volunteers who shows up consistently, jumps in wherever needed, and ensures essential services continue for neighbors facing hardship, She began volunteering through Seniors in Service at CARES, and when that program closed, she immediately transitioned to supporting food assistance. Today, she serves at the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry in Port Richey at Our Lady Queen of Peace, a vital but small pantry supporting an extremely vulnerable population, including individuals living paycheck-to-paycheck or experiencing homelessness. Cathy brings patience, compassion, and a steady heart to every task. She packs food boxes, assists in the office, and helps with bookkeeping and client files--whatever the pantry needs that day, she does it with dedication and care. Her commitment is extraordinary: in November 2025, she logged 69 hours of service, and in December 2025, she contributed an incredible 173 hours in a single month. This level of dedication speaks volumes about her work ethic and the depth of her care for her community. Equally important is the way Cathy gives her time. blown for her warmth, kindness, and ability to make others feel welcome, she consistently supports her team and the clients served with positivity, respect, and dignity. Her steady presence ensures that the pantry can reach more neighbors in need, and that every person who walks through the door feels valued. For her extraordinary dedication, compassionate service, and meaningful impact on the community, I am proud to recognize Ms. Cathy Tatum as a 2026 Hero Among Us. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring her unwavering commitment and the lasting difference she continues to make for the people of Pasco County. ____________________