HR0266 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0266 LRB103 32197 ECR 61329 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, May is annually recognized as National Foster Care Awareness Month to highlight the needs of children living in foster care and the contributions that foster parents make to society by opening their homes to children in need; and

WHEREAS, There are almost 21,000 children living in foster care in the State of Illinois; and

WHEREAS, Children in foster care come from different backgrounds, with many of them accompanied by brothers and sisters; they need the comfort, support, and security that only a family can provide; and

WHEREAS, Foster parents are the frontline caregivers for children who cannot safely remain with their parents, and they provide physical care, emotional support, and education advocacy; and

WHEREAS, An increased emphasis on prevention and reunification services is necessary to reduce the number of children that are forced to remain in the foster care system; and

WHEREAS, Children who age out of foster care often lack the security or support necessary to secure affordable housing, obtain health insurance, pursue higher education, and acquire adequate employment; and

WHEREAS, Illinois is strongly committed to ensuring that children grow up healthy and safe in supportive homes and families; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we recognize the month of May 2023 as National Foster Care Awareness Month; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the Foster Care Alumni of America as a symbol of our respect and esteem.