Backup Documents 05/13/2025 Item # 4GPROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, May is recognized as National Foster Care Month to honor the contributions of foster
parents, volunteers, child welfare professionals and others who work to ensure the safety
and well-being of children in foster care; and
WHEREAS, in Southwest Florida, there are over 1,400 children in foster care. During 2024, 540
children were removed from their homes in our 5-county region, including 81 children in
Collier County; and
WHEREAS, the Collier County Board of Commissioners acknowledges the critical role of faith -based
organizations in supporting and strengthening families through services, including foster
care programs and family support initiatives; and
WHEREAS, 4KIDS Southwest Florida provides compassionate care and support to children and
families in our community, offering foster care services, training for foster parents, and
advocacy for children who are in need of a loving and nurturing environment; and
WHEREAS, 4KIDS Southwest Florida and other similar organizations work tirelessly to build
partnerships with local congregations, businesses, and volunteers to raise awareness about
the need for foster homes, encourage family unity, and help children fmd permanency
through reunification, adoption, or guardianship; and
WHEREAS, National Foster Care Month is an opportunity for all members of our conununity to
recognize the sacrifices and dedication of foster families, raise awareness of the challenges
faced by children in foster care, and take steps to support the work of foster care
organizations;
NOW THEREFORE, be it proclaimed by the Board of County Commissioners of Collier County, Florida,
that May 2025 be designated as
NATIONAL FOSTER CARE MONTH
DONE AND ORDERED THIS 13th Day of May 2025.
Board of County Commissioners
Collier ounty, Flori
Burt L. Saunders, Chairman