On National Foster Care Day, a bipartisan group of U.S. Representatives introduced a resolution to designate May as National Foster Care Month. The initiative was led by Rep. Don Bacon (R, NE-02), co-chair of the Foster Youth Caucus, along with fellow co-chairs Reps. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D, CA-37), Erin Houchin (R, IN-09), Gwen Moore (D, WI-04), Zach Nunn (R, IA-03), and Mary Gay Scanlon (D, PA-05). The resolution aims to encourage Congress to implement policies that enhance the child welfare system and acknowledges the contributions of foster families, social workers, and advocates.
Rep. Bacon expressed his commitment to improving foster care policies: “As co-chair of the Foster Youth Caucus and a foster-to-adopt parent myself, I know that every child deserves a safe, loving, and permanent home.” He emphasized the importance of recognizing both the challenges faced by foster youth and the dedication of those supporting them.
Rep. Kamlager-Dove highlighted her motivation for reintroducing the resolution: “All children deserve stable environments where they can learn, grow, and thrive.” She stressed her dedication to championing vulnerable children in Los Angeles County through her congressional work.
Rep. Moore underscored National Foster Care Month as an opportunity to focus on young people in the child welfare system: “Serving as co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth, I am deeply committed to that work every day.”
Rep. Nunn shared his personal connection to the cause: “Every child deserves a safe, loving, and permanent home.” He pledged continued efforts to support families willing to foster or adopt.
Rep. Scanlon reflected on her background as a child advocate: “Before coming to Congress…I spent decades working as a child advocate.” She reiterated her commitment to addressing challenges within the foster care system.
The U.S. Children’s Bureau reports that 369,000 children are currently in foster care nationwide. These youth face various challenges related to health, education, employment opportunities, and justice system involvement. Established in 1988 in the United States, National Foster Care Month seeks recognition for these individuals and their supporters.
The Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth serves as a platform for policymakers to discuss improvements in child welfare systems while ensuring support for resilient youth across America.
