WHEREAS, every child deserves a safe, loving, stable home in which to grow, learn, and play; and
WHEREAS, many children in our community are in crisis and must be temporarily removed from their homes to ensure that the child’s physical and emotional needs are addressed; and
WHEREAS, foster parents help children heal from the painful wounds of abuse and neglect, and help prepare them for a healthy future. Facing enormous challenges, foster parents open their hearts and homes each day to provide the support these children need and deserve; and
WHEREAS, Alaska benefits from the selfless dedication and service on the part of foster parents. Their contributions to the welfare of Alaska’s families are incalculable and irreplaceable; and
WHEREAS, Alaskans who are able and willing to open their homes to children in need are encouraged to learn more about becoming a foster parent by calling (800) 478-7307 or visiting the Alaska Office of Children’s Services online at http://dhss.alaska.gov/ocs/Pages/fostercare; and
WHEREAS, Alaska’s foster parents, family members, child welfare professionals, and other community members deserve our gratitude and respect for the work they do every day to ensure our youth receive the support they need.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Michael J. Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim May 2019 as:
Foster Parent Appreciation Month
in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to recognize and celebrate foster parents in their communities and to consider participating in a program that cares for some of the most vulnerable members of our society when they need it most.
