May is Foster Care Month

May 15, 2020
foster youth

The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) joins the nation in celebrating National Foster Care Month, a time dedicated to recognizing those who play an essential role in the lives of children and youth in out-of-home care.

On May 14, 2020, Gov. Jay Inslee proclaimed May as Foster Care Month in Washington.

DCYF recognizes the more than 8,100 children in out-of-home care, 5,100 licensed foster homes and over 5,000 kinship caregivers. We also acknowledge the DCYF staff and partners who commit to the agency’s mission to protect children and strengthen so they flourish.

In the proclamation, Gov. Inslee thanked all the caseworkers who work tirelessly to ensure the safety of children in care as well as the foster parents and kinship caregivers who provide a meaningful and supportive presence in their lives.  

He also recognized the Seattle Mariners for their 12 years of partnership through the We Are Family Day event, which is normally held during a game at the Mariner’s T-Mobile Arena, but this year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event has been postponed. 
The month is meant to raise awareness for the need of additional foster families and kinship caregivers as well as provide support for existing caregivers. 

Join us in celebrating Foster Care Month!