We have a sacred obligation to support those who have served our country and provide them with the benefits they’ve earned. I’m proud to represent tens of thousands of veterans in the Sixth District and this is an area I’ve made a priority since taking office.
Each of the last two years, as the House of Representatives has debated the budget for the Department of Defense, I’ve worked to increase support for the Fisher House Foundation, a non-profit that does incredible work. Fisher House provides 100% free lodging for military families near VA hospitals around the country. Designed like an apartment, Fisher House lodging allows a family to stay near their loved one while they are receiving care in a family-friendly space with a kitchen, dining room, living room and toys for children. Thanks to Fisher House, fewer families have to choose between paying their bills and being together during a difficult time.
In both 2013 and 2014, I successfully introduced an amendment to the House Defense Budget to substantially increase funding for the Fisher House Foundation, from $4 million to $20 million – an increase that has been fully offset by a reduction in the Operation and Maintenance Account. Fisher House builds and maintains these facilities, which they donate to the government after building.
After two long conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, the need for more homes is great. Both years, my amendment passed on the House floor and was included in the final House budget. However, to date, this additional support for Fisher House has not made it into the final version of the budget that comes out of conference with the Senate, but I’m committed to continuing to fight for this upgrade. It’s needed and there is strong bipartisan support to get this done. I don’t want any veteran receiving care at the hospital alone.
Since 1990, the Fisher House Foundation has provided more than five million days of lodging to more than 180,000 families. They would like to serve even more families and this is something I’m working to get done in Congress.
– John