An estimated 408,000 children are in foster care currently. Each year, nearly 30,000 children age out of the foster care system with no permanent home or familial support to turn to. For the second year in a row, Give Something Back is proud to take part in the observance of National Foster Care Month during the month of May.
In 1988, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed May National Foster Care Month. Each passing year, the standing President of the United States issues a Presidential Proclamation concerning National Foster Care Month. With the numbers of mothers in prison rising significantly, there is a growing concern for the preservation of our young people. The month-long observance intends to spread awareness, encourage community involvement, and pay tribute to foster parents and professionals within the system.
“National Foster Care Month presents an appropriate opportunity for all of us—public officials, business, religious, and community leaders, and parents alike—to reflect on the pressures facing families today and on the need for increased efforts to ensure that abandoned or abused children have the opportunity to live in healthy, loving homes.” – Ronald Reagan, 1988 Proclamation
View Reagan’s full Presidential Proclamation of National Foster Care Month here.
Throughout the month of May, volunteer opportunities and educational initiatives regarding the foster care system take place throughout the United States. We are humbled to participate in this month of awareness, as Give Back is proud to dedicate our mentor services and scholarship support to foster youth throughout the country. We encourage you, too, to take the opportunity to learn more about this critical system within our country and the several ways in which you can support foster youth and their families.
For more information on ways to get involved in foster care initiatives, check back on the Give Back blog throughout the month.