Respite Awareness Month

WHEREAS, respite is short term, temporary relief that can make a world of difference for family caregivers of both children and adults with disabilities or other health needs; and

WHEREAS, respite is one of the most frequently requested home and community-based services, yet remains in critically short supply; and

WHEREAS, an estimated 570,000 Alabamians are caregivers for a family member; often taking great joy in providing care to their loved ones so that they can remain in the home and postpone out of home placement; and

WHEREAS, respite is a proven, cost effective solution that helps preserve families by reducing stress, supporting stability, preventing the incidence of abuse and neglect, and relieving the physical, emotional and financial consequences for the family caregiver:

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

Respite Awareness Month

in the State of the Alabama.

 

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 25th day of October 2011.

 

                                                                                 Governor Robert Bentley