Tallahassee, Fla. – Governor and First Lady DeSantis, along with the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) and the Florida Coalition for Children (FCC), joined partners across the state to recognize May as National Foster Care Month in Florida. There are currently about 5,400 licensed foster homes and there is always a need for more in every community.
“As a mother, I understand what it takes to care for a child and the love that you pour into your children. I’m so grateful to every individual and family in Florida who has opened their home to foster a child for giving that same love to a child in need,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis. “Every child deserves a safe and loving home, and as Chair of the Children and Youth Cabinet, I will strive to make sure that no child in Florida goes without one. I encourage anyone who is able to step up for the children in your community and become a foster parent.”
There are nearly 24,000 children currently in foster care in Florida who have been removed from their homes because they cannot safely remain with their parents or caregivers. More than 7,000 of those children are in licensed foster care; many others are in the home of a family member or someone who is like family. Each one of these children need love, security, and a strong foundation to build their life around.
Governor DeSantis proclaimed May as a time to celebrate foster parents for the tremendous call they have answered to serve vulnerable children and bring attention to the important need for more foster families in Florida. Foster parents change lives and offer hope to children.
“I have been honored to meet and spend time with some of Florida’s foster parents and they are a true blessing to our children in need,” said DCF Secretary Chad Poppell. “They provide the best gift anyone can give to a child through their time and compassion. If you know a foster parent, I urge you to thank them for not only shaping the life of a child today, but also for shaping the leaders of Florida’s future. If you are interested in being a foster parent, I encourage you to reach out to your local community-based care lead agency to get involved.”
DCF contracts with 17 community-based care (CBC) lead agencies across the state that provide prevention, intervention, foster care, and adoption services. These agencies recruit and train the thousands of individuals and families across Florida who serve as foster parents and match them with children in need of short and long-term homes.
“It takes a community of advocates, volunteers and caregivers to provide care for Florida’s vulnerable children and youth residing in our foster care system,” said Florida Coalition for Children CEO, Kurt Kelly. “During National Foster Care Month each May, we recognize the foster parents, therapeutic foster parents, kin caregivers and many others who make up a family for children while they await a forever family.”
For more information about becoming a foster parent or learning more about how you can help, contact your local CBC or visit www.myflfamilies.com/service-programs/foster-care/.
For a PDF copy of Governor DeSantis’ proclamation, click HERE.