May 21, 2009

Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm has proclaimed May 2009 as Foster Care Month in Michigan in recognition of foster parents, the child welfare professionals working in our state, and the people and the programs that aid children in foster care.

The Michigan Department of Human Services and the St. Vincent Catholic Charities (STVCC) today hosted an event in Lansing observing Foster Care Month.

"Foster Care Month is an opportunity to thank the families and agencies that provide support, affection, love, and security to children in foster care," DHS Director Ismael Ahmed said.

"It also gives us a chance to get the message out that we are always in need of new foster and adoptive families," he added. "It's an ideal time to stress the importance of establishing a permanent placement for children who are wards of the state."

DHS, which oversees the state's foster care system, provides placement and supervision for children who are temporary or permanent state wards, including children who cannot stay in their homes because their parents cannot provide minimal care and supervision. DHS foster care services focus on resolving the problems that led to the child's removal and providing stability and a permanent placement for the child.

The goal is to return a child to his or her parents. When that is not possible, children are placed in a safe and loving, licensed foster home or with a relative.

Michigan's foster care system currently serves over 16,800 children and youths. Of those children, almost 4,000 are available and waiting for adoption.

STVCC CEO Andrea Seyka noted, "There are thousands of children locally who still need dedicated, loving men and women to step in as their guardians during times of crisis. Currently, STVCC is focused on recruiting more foster parents. We believe every child deserves to feel safe and wanted."

Karen Strachan and her husband, residents of Perry, attended the event. The two have fostered more than 30 children over the past 15 years ? and have adopted eight of them.

"While you will see accomplishments along the way, it's about being in it for the long haul, believing that you are impacting the futures and destinies of our children," Strachan said.

To become licensed foster parents, applicants must complete background checks, provide medical statements, have a home inspection, and provide references.

For more information, visit the DHS Web site at www.michigan.gov/fostercare.