WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) selected Tosha Patterson, an East Point resident, as her virtual guest to President Joe Biden’s Joint Address to Congress on Wednesday. Thanks to local government funding provided by the American Rescue Plan, Ms. Patterson, a single mom front-line essential worker who recovered from COVID-19, was able to receive the critical support she needed to keep her utilities on.

“Americans like Miss Patterson are the true heroes of this pandemic, and I am proud to have her join me as my virtual guest to the Presidential Address,” said Congresswoman Williams. “We are forever indebted to our essential workers in the District and across the country. It is important to honor brave workers, like Ms. Patterson, uplift their stories and show how the American Rescue Plan is working for the people. Help is here.”

“I think the whole thing is successful,” Tosha Patterson said about the American Rescue Plan. “They heard my cry and wiped my tears. During the time when I didn’t know how I was going to cover my utilities, I got help. Without the support from the city of East Point, I don’t know what I would have done.”

Wednesday’s address, which will be President Biden’s first speech to a Joint Session of Congress, marks 100 days into the President’s first term. In the past, Members of Congress have often invited constituents to join them as guests. While COVID-19 safety protocols have been implemented, in-person attendance will be limited.