May is National Resource Foster Care Month, a time to recognize that we can each play a part in enhancing the lives of children and youth in foster care. Starting in 1988, U.S. Presidents issued annual proclamations in recognition of National Foster Care Month to show appreciation and gratitude to resource foster parents across the nation. The purpose of National Foster Care Month continues to evolve based on the needs of the time. Current activities focus on increasing the visibility of the needs of children and youth in foster care and highlighting how the child welfare system can prioritize foster care as a service to families and promote reunification.
In New Mexico the Children Youth and Families Department (CYFD) Protective Services agency seeks to provide for the safety, permanency, and well-being of children and youth through leadership, support for necessary services, and productive partnerships with children, youth, parents, families, caregivers, tribes, and communities. Foster care is just one part of the constellation of services provided to children and families. The intent of foster care is to provide a safe environment for children and youth who temporarily cannot live with their families.
Today, the Children’s Bureau, together with its partners, supports National Resource Foster Care Month through a website developed with the Child Welfare Information Gateway. For more information and resources on national programs and practices that promote permanency for children and youth, as well as information on special Resource Foster Care Month initiatives, visit the National Foster Care Month website.
And remember, accessing emotional support doesn’t have to be one of the challenges you experience. The New Mexico Peer-to-Peer Warmline is here to offer emotional, mental, and behavioral health support when you need someone here to hear you. We are real people who have been there. Call us when you need to talk. 1-855-466-7100.
