News Release

HUD SECRETARY SERVES LUNCH AT AREA SHELTER
HUD Joins So Others Might Eat In Recognition Of National Volunteer Week

WASHINGTON – Today, Housing and Urban Development Secretary Alphonso Jackson joined volunteers from the local community and members of the HUD staff to serve lunch at So Others Might Eat (SOME). SOME is a nonprofit, community-based organization that exists to help the poor and homeless of Washington by providing clothing, health care, and serving nearly 1,000 meals daily.

"I am pleased to take part in SOME's effort to help those in need. I believe when you help your neighbor, you help your country. I hope others will give back to their communities and get involved during National Volunteer Week," Jackson said.

SOME also offers services such as affordable housing, job training, addiction treatment, and counseling, to those in need. Since it's founding 35 years ago, SOME's mission has been to restore hope and dignity to those in need.

"We are especially honored to have Secretary Jackson of HUD here to serve meals to the hungry in our SOME Dining Room," said SOME President, Father John Adams. "His presence is a wonderful example of how some of the busiest people in our country still find time to reach out and make a difference."

SOME receives funding from HUD under the Continuum of Care grants that fund a wide variety of programs, from street outreach and assessment programs to transitional and permanent housing for homeless persons and families. In addition, Continuum grants fund important services such as job training, health care, mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment and child care.

"The dedication and vision of Father John and all the people involved with SOME will help us to achieve the President's goal to help break the cycle of homelessness," said Jackson.

"Inspire by Example" is the theme of this year's National Volunteer Week, showcasing the power volunteers have to inspire not only other people to volunteer but also the people they serve. National Volunteer Week is an opportunity to recognize the efforts of volunteers across the country and to promote existing opportunities for all Americans to participate in volunteer service. You can read President Bush's National Volunteer Week Proclamation at: www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/04/20060420-8.html.

HUD is the nation's housing agency committed to increasing homeownership, particularly among minorities; creating affordable housing opportunities for low-income Americans; and supporting the homeless, elderly, people with disabilities and people living with AIDS. The Department also promotes economic and community development as well as enforces the nation's fair housing laws. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet at www.hud.gov and espanol.hud.gov. For more information about FHA products, please visit www.fha.gov.

###