The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING ANN AWALT
______
HON. FILEMON VELA
of texas
in the house of representatives
Monday, September 27, 2021
Mr. VELA. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor a key leader and transformative figure in South Texas, Ann Awalt. Ann has over four decades of first-hand experience in developing rural community service systems and has dedicated her time and leadership to the people of South Texas. Her service and passion for her work is reflected in the lasting impact she has had on TX-34 communities and families.
Ann Awalt is a South Texas native, where she attended The University of Texas at Austin and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Government. She went on to develop several rural service systems, including the Community Action Corporation of South Texas
(CACOST) and its network of resources. Ann then attended graduate school at The University of Texas at Arlington and graduated with a Master of Public Administration.
Ann is now the Executive Director of CACOST, which serves South Texans in 17 counties by providing an integrated range of health and human services. The network includes federally qualified health centers, child and family development services through Head Start and Early Childhood Intervention, and community services for nutrition, housing, and energy assistance.
In 2013, Ann strongly advocated for the funding of Head Start, a federally subsidized program that provides traditionally underserved children from birth through age five, with meals, educational programs, and other services to build a solid foundation as these children head into their school years. In 2020, over 4,200 children benefited from Head Start programs in TX-34. The program also includes senior nutritional services, which provide elderly residents home-delivered meals; and last year served nearly 16,000 persons through their Federally Qualified Health Center and assisted over 13,000 persons with utility assistance. Her hands-on leadership and commitment to her community has helped CACOST secure funding from contracts and grants at the federal and state levels, including those available through the Head Start model, which have enriched the lives of seniors, children and families.
This past year, Ann led the Community Action Agency's response efforts to the challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic. Alongside a team of medical experts, she set up six clinics around the Coastal Bend to provide lifesaving vaccines and COVID-19 tests for the region. Her perseverance led to over 22,000 vaccinations administered by CACOST. Ann's collaboration with community partners in the Coastal Bend ensure that these vital health and nutritional services will continue to be available to those living throughout South Texas. Ann also represents South Texas as a member of the Texas Association of Community Action Agencies, serving on both the Executive Committee and the Legislative Committee.
Ann Awalt is truly a pillar of determination who exemplifies selfless service and dedication to her community. She continues to foster growth and action, while advocating for the people who need it most. It is clear that Ann Awalt is deeply invested in the people of South Texas and we cannot thank her enough for her service.
____________________
SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 168
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