Foster Care Month

WHEREAS, the family, serving as the primary source of love, identity, self-esteem and support, is the very foundation of our communities and our State; and

WHEREAS, in the State of Alabama, there are approximately 6,200 children and youth in foster care being provided with a safe, secure and stable home, along with the compassion and support of a foster family; and

WHEREAS, all young people in foster care need a meaningful connection to a caring adult who becomes a supportive and lasting presence in their lives; and

WHEREAS, foster, kinship and adoptive families, who open their homes and hearts to support children whose families are in crisis, play a vital role in helping children and families heal and reconnect, thereby launching young people into a successful adulthood; and

WHEREAS, dedicated foster families frequently adopt foster children, resulting in a greater need for more foster families; and

WHEREAS, there are numerous individuals and public and private organizations who work to increase public awareness of the needs of children in and leaving foster care, as well as the enduring and valuable contribution of foster parents; and

WHEREAS, the foster care “system” is only as good as those who choose to be a part of it:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim May 2011, as

Foster Care Month

in the state of the Alabama and urge all citizens to come forward and do something positive that will help change a lifetime for children and youth in foster care.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 23rd day of May 2011.

      

Governor Robert Bentley