The month of May marks the observation of National Foster Care Month.  The issue of child welfare is an important one that often gets overlooked.  As a member of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth, Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) will be participating in activities to celebrate foster youth and those who make a meaningful difference in the lives of foster youth.

Since President Ronald Reagan signed the first Presidential proclamation, in 1988, May has been celebrated as Foster Care Month. Yearly the President signs a proclamation that recognizes the work of foster families, social workers, faith-based and community organizations.  There are some 400,000 young Americans that placed in the Nation’s foster care system. The month of May is a way to share their stories and help raise awareness about the challenges faced by these youth.

“With more than 420,000 youth currently in our nation’s foster care system it is critical that we take time this month to raise awareness about the unique challenges young people in the system face,” said Congressman Bacon. 

“Joined by my colleagues in the Congressional Foster Youth Caucus, I am committed to combining our unique and diverse experiences to bring a significant change to help youth prosper while in foster care and eventually find a permanent home,” Congressman Bacon added.  “I am proud to renew my commitment to ensuring that every child has the safe and supporting family they deserve.”

Congressman Bacon being a foster parent himself understands that need is great and the reward is even greater.  “The idea that children belong in families is not only one of the most bi-partisan issues I have the privilege of working on, but also one of the most important,” said Bacon.  “Nothing is more important to a child’s upbringing and long-term success than a loving, stable home.”

Later this week, Rep. Bacon will host a special guest in the US Capitol, spending a portion of the day with him as part of Foster Youth Shadow Day.  The program instituted in 2012 allows foster youth to spend the day with their Congressman and provides insight into foster kid’s routines, aspirations and policies. The goal of Foster Youth Shadow day is to encourage youth to nurture their talents and develop their leadership skills.