Recognizing Community Partners and Families
Governor Ron DeSantis proclaimed the second week of February as Florida Foster Family Appreciation Week, observed on February 11-15, 2019, to celebrate the enduring and invaluable contributions foster families provide to children in their care.
First Lady Casey DeSantis said, “Our state is blessed for the contribution of foster parents and the families they create. Whether a foster family is together for a short period of time or longer, the impact of the relationship is forever. As a mother, I am truly grateful for those who create a loving and nurturing environment for children and encourage all Floridians to find a way to help build and rebuild families in their own communities.”
“I applaud Florida’s foster families and every individual who plays a part in the fostering process as they help to change the life of a child in their community,” said Department of Children and Families (DCF) Secretary Chad Poppell. “It is difficult for us to imagine what a child must feel during such a difficult time, but a foster parent can change a child’s heart by providing the love, joy, and security they want and need.”
Florida currently has 7,287 children who live with foster families. Foster parents provide a supportive, safe, and loving home to children who have been removed from their homes. Foster parents serve as role models, not only to the child, but also to biological parents.
“Our foster parents play a vital role in the lives of the children we serve. They provide love and nurturing until we can place a child in a safe and permanent home,” said Florida Coalition for Children CEO Kurt Kelly. “It’s important that we honor them while also recognizing that we still have a critical need for more foster parents in our communities.”
The positive partnerships DCF shares with parents, foster families, community-based care agencies, non-profit organizations, state agencies, and the courts are essential. Each one plays a valuable role that makes a solid foundation of resources for children in foster care and the families who support them.
There are 5,358 licensed foster parents in Florida who selflessly play a pivotal role in the lives of the most vulnerable children. During Foster Family Appreciation Week, join us in making a difference where it really matters and consider becoming a foster family to a child in your community. The need for foster families never ends. Please visit dcf.state.fl.us/service-programs/foster-care.
