5. Proclamation - Foster Care MonthPROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, the family, serving as the primary source of love, identity, self-esteem and support, is the very foundation
of our communities and our State, and;
WHEREAS, in the Flathead Valley there are over 130 children and youth in foster care being provided with a safe,
secure and stable home along with the compassion and nurture of a foster family, and;
WHEREAS, foster families, who open their homes and hearts to children whose families are in crisis, play a vital role
helping children and families heal and reconnect and launching children into successful adulthood, and;
WHEREAS, dedicated foster families frequently adopt foster children, resulting in a greater need for more foster
families, and;
WHEREAS, there are numerous individuals, public and private organizations who work to increase public awareness of
the needs of children in a leaving foster care, as well as the enduring and valuable contribution of foster parents, and the foster
care "system" is only as good as those who choose to be part of it;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Pamela B. Kennedy, Mayor of the City of Kalispell, Montana, do hereby proclaim May as:
"FOSTER CARE MONTH"
and urge all citizens to volunteer their talents and energies on behalf of children in foster care, foster parents and the child
welfare professional staff working with them during this month and throughout the year.
DATED this 17th day of May, 2004
Pamela B. Kennedy, Mayor