HONORING LINDA KEYS Speaker: Congressman Bennie G. Thompson Publication: Congressional Record Date: 9 July 2024 Subject: American Government Topic: Linda Keys

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr, Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable individual, Ms. Linda Keys.

Linda Keys was born in July 1955 to the late Willie and Mary Phipps Keys. She grew up in a rural farming community where hard work and familial support were fundamental values. Being the youngest of seven children, Linda witnessed her parents' dedication firsthand. Her father worked tirelessly as a farmer to provide the necessities of life, while her mother juggled he roles of homemaker and wage earner, demonstrating an unparalleled work ethic.

Raised in Mississippi Linda's upbringing instilled in her a drive for academic excellence and a belief in the transformative power of education. She graduated from Quitman County High School (QCHS) in Marks, Mississippi, in 1973 and then pursued higher education at St. Louis University in St. Louis, Missouri, where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Education in 1978.

Although Linda initially aspired to become an educator, her path took an unexpected turn when she was offered a full-time position at Ford Motor Company after completing internships. Embracing the opportunity Linda embarked on a career that required her to balance the demands of work. education. and motherhood with unwavering determination.

After the passing of her husband in 2012, Linda transitioned into a retired lifestyle until her mother's declining health prompted her to move back to Mississippi in 2015. It was during this period that Linda's compassion for the less fortunate was reignited, as she witnessed children enduring the bitter cold without adequate clothing.

Motivated to make a difference, Linda founded Mississippi Coats4Kidz in January 2016, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing coats, blankets, and other essentials to children living in poverty across Mississippi. Through her steadfast leadership and the support of various stakeholders, including grants, sponsors, and donors, Linda's organization has distributed over 100,000 coats to date offering warmth and hope to countless children in need.

Linda's philanthropic efforts have garnered recognition and accolades, including certificates of recognition from the Mississippi State Senate awards from organizations such as Men United and WMC Action News 5, and the prestigious Governor's Initiative for Volunteers of Excellence award in 2022.

In addition to her charitable endeavors, Linda is an active member of various professional and nonprofit associations, including National Association of Professional Women and the Mississippi Alliance of Nonprofits. She is a devout believer in the power of faith and community and attends Pleasant Grove M.B. Church in Crenshaw, Mississippi, where she finds spiritual guidance under the leadership of Pastor Prez Jackson.

As Linda continues her mission to serve the vulnerable members of her community, her unwavering commitment to making a difference, one coat at a time, stands as a testament to the transformative impact of compassion and resilience.

Mr. Speaker, I invite my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Linda Keys for her service to the community.