DeSantis Declares May as Foster Care Month in Florida

May 2, 2022 Updated 10:52 A.M. ET

TALLAHASSEE (FLV) – Gov. Ron DeSantis released a statement recognizing May as Foster Care Month in Florida.

On Sunday, First Lady Casey DeSantis said, “Today marks the start of Foster Care Month in Florida. Thank you to all of Florida’s incredible families and child welfare workers who bring a sense of safety and stability to kids in the foster care system.”

In his Sunday declaration, DeSantis said, “Every child has the right to live in a safe, stable home where they can grow up healthy and happy.”

“When children cannot safely reside with their families, foster parents provide stability, healing, and care to children in the child welfare system.”

The DeSantis family have launched several programs that help to aid children in foster care as well as the families that open their homes to foster children.

In August 2020, Governor and First Lady DeSantis launched Florida’s Foster Information Center, which aids in connecting families that are looking to take in foster children by providing them with the right agencies and information.

Governor DeSantis mentions the success of Florida’s Foster Information Center in his statement, saying, “Since Governor and First Lady DeSantis launched Florida’s Foster Information Center in August 2020, over 4,300 prospective foster parents have been connected with their local licensing agency to take the next steps in opening their hearts and homes to Florida’s most vulnerable children.”

DeSantis also discusses Hope Florida, a program launched by First Lady DeSantis in September 2021. In his statement, he says, “First Lady Casey DeSantis launched Hope Florida–a Pathway to Prosperity to unite the private sector, faith-based community, nonprofits, and government entities in helping to support and strengthen families.”

There are over 11,500 children in the state of Florida that are currently living with licensed foster parents as they await their biological or adopted families. DeSantis has worked to improve the foster care system in hopes that it can provide a home for every child in the state of Florida who needs one.

“The child welfare system is made up of thousands of dedicated professionals who work to support the needs of families in crisis and children entering the foster care system each day,” DeSantis said.

“Foster Care Month in Florida is an opportunity to raise public awareness of the needs of children in the child welfare system and the role foster parents play in the lives of young people.”

Casey DeSantis noted, “If you’re willing and able to open your heart and home, call: 1-83-FOSTERFL.”