Hoyer Serves as Roast Master for Project ECHO's Celebrity Roast of Bernie Fowler, Sr.
CHESAPEAKE BEACH, MD – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) tonight served as the roast master for Project ECHO's 2015 Celebrity Roast of former state Senator Bernie Fowler, Sr. The event will benefit Project ECHO, a homeless shelter in Calvert County.
“I was proud to open Project ECHO’s roast tonight to honor my friend, Bernie Fowler, Sr., who I’ve known for many years,” said Congressman Steny Hoyer. “Bernie has long been a champion of the Chesapeake Bay and its watershed. For 26 years, he has hosted his annual Wade-In along the shores of the Patuxent to make a scientific calculation of the water quality based on his sneaker index. He has also worn many other hats including as a sailor, an educator, and a gold-medal senior Olympian in track and field. And no matter what outfit he wears, whether a business suit or his famous overalls, Bernie has always fought for those without a voice and in need of our help.”
“I am also pleased that tonight’s event will help to benefit Project ECHO’s efforts to combat the effects of homelessness in Calvert County by providing meals and comfort to those who need it,” continued Congressman Hoyer. “Project ECHO’s transitional housing helps families who can’t afford a mortgage or rent while they save up for a place of their own. It’s been fifty years since President Lyndon Johnson declared 'unconditional war on poverty' in our country. Today, we continue to wage that battle, and Project ECHO is one of the powerful weapons in our arsenal of hope and care."
Project ECHO was established in 1992 after the Ecumenical Council of Calvert County formed a task force to start a homeless shelter. In 2014, Project ECHO provided more than 27,000 meals and over 12,000 bed nights for 173 people.