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ATTENTION: EDITORS / ASSIGNMENT EDITORS

Contact:
Robert Traynham, press secretary, Sen. Santorum, 202-224-6324
Neil Cotiaux, FHLBank of Pittsburgh, 412-288-2851, cell: 412-335-9488

SANTORUM, FHLBANK TO PRESENT MAJOR GRANT TO THE BETHESDA MISSION

HARRISBURG, PA, February 17, 2006— U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum
(R-PA), officials of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh (FHLBank) and community leaders will announce a major grant to Harrisburg's nearly century-old Bethesda Mission that will allow it to complete a comprehensive renovation of its Men's Shelter. The grant presentation will take place Wednesday, February 22, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at the Men's Shelter portion of the Mission at 611 Reily Street in Downtown Harrisburg.

As Harrisburg's only sanctuary for men in need, the Men's Shelter at Bethesda Mission provides lodging, nutrition, hot showers, laundry facilities, clothing and comprehensive social services for the area's homeless. Built in 1902 and purchased by Bethesda Mission in 1934, the Men's Shelter is undergoing more than $1.8 million in major renovations encompassing 76 living units. Specifics of renovation work will be detailed by Mission leaders next Wednesday. The FHLBank's Affordable Housing Program grant, to be presented at the event, will fulfill a large percentage of renovation costs and ensure the project's completion.

Also during the event, Sen. Santorum will discuss the role that faith-based initiatives play in improving the lives of Pennsylvanians. He will be available to answer questions from the media.

Directions:

On I-81 toward Harrisburg, take Exit 67 (Harrisburg/Cameron Street) onto Route 22 East. Go 1.3 miles. Route 22 East becomes North Cameron Street. Go 0.5 mile. Continue on Maclay Street. Go 0.4 mile. Turn left onto North 7th Street. Go 0.6 mile. Turn right onto Reily Street. The Men's Shelter will be on the left at 611 Reily Street. For assistance, please call Bethesda Mission at 717-257-4442.

A reserved parking area for media vehicles will be available directly in front of the shelter.