April 12, 2007National Foster Care MonthMay is National Foster Care Month! This is a time to recognize people across the country that are helping vulnerable children build brighter futures by serving as their foster parents, relative caregivers, mentors, advocates, social workers and volunteers. We want to take this opportunity to thank you for your commitment, dedication and the work you do caring for Washington's children and families. By opening your home and heart, you leave an indelible mark on generations to come and play a vital role in helping Washington's children and families. Washington foster families and relative care providers not only provide temporary homes, safety, education, and mentoring for our children, but they also help birth families by working in partnership to ensure that children can be safely reunited with the birth families. When reunification is not in the best interest of the child, many of our families choose to adopt the children who have been placed in their homes, offering permanence and stability the children may not otherwise experience. In Olympia, the Governor will sign a proclamation recognizing May as Foster Care Month and honoring foster parents across the state. We would like to invite you to attend the celebration and the signing of the proclamation. When: May 1, 2007 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm For information, please contact: Michael Luque, Foster Care & Kinship Care Program Manager at (360) 902-7986. There are many events scheduled at the regional and state level in recognition of May as Foster Care Month. Please contact your local foster parent association(s) or Children's Administration office to get more information about community activities. |