Governor Bob Riley has proclaimed May as Foster Care Month in Alabama. Currently, there are more than 6,000 children in foster care in the state. The observance of Foster Care Month emphasizes the important of the services that protect children from abuse and neglect.
"Foster Care Month also acknowledges the importance of foster parents and our other community partners who care for hurting children," said Dr. Page Walley, commissioner of the state Department of Human Resources (DHR). "The observance brings sharply into focus the critical needs of foster children and the importance of our foster parents who respond so faithfully and selflessly to the children’s needs," Commissioner Walley said. "With the help of our community partners, our county DHR staff work hard to prevent and remedy child abuse and neglect," he said.
Some children are placed in foster care briefly while a family crisis is resolved. Others remain in care for longer periods of time, depending upon the circumstances that led to their removal from their family’s home. "Foster parent recruitment and the retention of the foster homes that are already approved remain high priorities," Commissioner Walley said. "Our foster parents deserve special praise because they open their homes and their hearts to foster children and love them unconditionally. They understand that a safe, secure home is very important to the healthy development of a child," he said.
Commissioner Walley said the agency is also thankful for the support of its other community partners. "Civic organizations, churches, and schools contribute financial resources, clothing and their time to assist foster children," he noted. "The observance of Foster Care Month highlights our sincere appreciation for our community partners who work with us to nurture and protect hurting children," Commissioner Walley said.
Call 1-866-4AL-Kids to get more information about becoming a foster parent or learn about other ways you can help.