LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor David A. Paterson to
proclaim May 2010, as Foster Care Month in the State of New York, in
conjunction with National Foster Care Month

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor
David A. Paterson to proclaim May 2010, as Foster Care Month in the
State of New York, in conjunction with National Foster Care Month; and
WHEREAS, This national celebration is the perfect time for highlight-
ing the many ways local citizens can get involved for children and fami-
lies in the State of New York; Jefferson County Department of Social
Services, Children's Home of Jefferson County and The House of the Good
Shepherd are hosting the 3rd Annual Foster Care Appreciation and Change
a Lifetime Awards Dinner to be held Friday, May 21, 2010, at the Edge-
wood Resort, Alexandria Bay, New York; and
WHEREAS, Nearly a half-million children and youth are in foster care
in America, all entering the system through no fault of their own; and
WHEREAS, National Foster Care Month recognizes the children and youth
in foster care, and former foster youth, as well as the professionals
and foster parents who demonstrate the depth and kindness of the human
heart; and
WHEREAS, The family, serving as the primary source of love, identity,
self-esteem, and support, is the very foundation of our communities and
our State; and
WHEREAS, In New York State there are many children and youth in foster
care being provided with a safe, secure, and stable home, along with the
compassion and nurture of a foster family; and
WHEREAS, In Jefferson County alone, there are over 100 children placed
in out-of-home foster care; nationally, there are over 500,000 children
in foster care, and only 170,000 licensed foster homes; and
WHEREAS, The foster families who open their homes and hearts to chil-
dren whose families are in crisis play a vital role in helping children
and families to heal and reconnect, launching children into successful
adulthood; and
WHEREAS, Foster homes are licensed for fewer children today than they
were prior to 1985, resulting in a greater need for more foster fami-
lies; and
WHEREAS, There are a lot of children who reach their 18th birthday and
"age out" of foster care; too often they are unprepared and lack the
ongoing support and guidance of caring adults; and
WHEREAS, There are numerous individuals and public and private organ-
izations who work to increase public awareness of the needs of children
who are in or leaving foster care, as well as the enduring and valuable
contributions of foster parents; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body, representing the citizens of the State
of New York, supports Foster Care Month, recognizing children and youth
in foster care deserve the happiness and joy every child should experi-
ence through family life and a safe, loving home; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor David A. Paterson to proclaim May 2010, as Foster
Care Month in the State of New York, in conjunction with National Foster
Care Month; and be it further
RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable David A. Paterson, Governor of the State of New
York, and to Jefferson County Department of Social Services, Children's
Home of Jefferson County, and The House of the Good Shepherd.