WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley, co-founder and co-chair of the Senate Caucus on Foster Youth, Sen. Debbie Stabenow, co-chair of the Senate Caucus on Foster Youth, and a bipartisan group of colleagues today introduced legislation recognizing May as National Foster Care Month.  The legislation is a resolution describing the multiple challenges facing the approximately 425,000 children in the foster care system.  It resolves that the Senate should enact policies to improve the lives of these children. Policy goals include the achievement of permanent homes and the successful transition of youths who are aging out of the system into adulthood.
 
“The month of May gives us the chance to spread the word about foster youth among our fellow elected representatives and the public at large,” Grassley said.  “National Foster Care Month focuses attention on the kids and caregivers who deserve recognition and problem-solving from their elected representatives for a good quality of life and future.” 
 
“It’s critical that foster children are placed in permanent, safe and loving homes,” said Stabenow.  “By recognizing May as National Foster Care month, we hope to raise awareness of the issues faced by young people in foster care as we work to create a bright future for each one of them.”
 
The resolution “recognizes foster youth throughout the United States for their ongoing tenacity, courage, and resilience while facing life challenges;” “acknowledges the exceptional alumni of the foster-care system who serve as advocates and role models for youth who remain in care;” and “honors the commitment and dedication of the individuals who work tirelessly to provide assistance and services to children in the foster-care system.”
 
The Senate Caucus on Foster Youth holds briefings and events with foster youth and experts to inform Congress and the public about legislation, programs and policies on child welfare.  Its special focus is hearing from foster youth directly about their experiences and views and how their lives can be improved. 
 
The text of the resolution introduced today is available here. 
 
 

 

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