[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 86 (Friday, May 17, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H3342]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              {time}  1100
                        MAY IS FOSTER CARE MONTH

  (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize May 
as National Foster Care Month and to thank every parent, volunteer, and 
mentor who works with our foster children.
  I am a proud member of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth. When 
I was an 11-year-old, a foster child, Bob, came into our family, and he 
continues to be my brother today.
  During this month, we renew our commitment to ensure that every child 
has a safe and loving family. I know firsthand how a supportive and 
loving home can make all the difference in a young person's life.
  Madam Speaker, there are more than 460,000 children and youth in 
foster care. These children and youth range from infants to 18 years 
old when they age out. Foster youth who transition out of the foster 
care system without a permanent home are at high risk for unemployment, 
poor educational outcomes, health issues, early parenthood, long-term 
dependency on public assistance, increased rates of incarceration, and 
homelessness.
  Madam Speaker, every child deserves a safe, supportive, and permanent 
family. We have the responsibility to continue to create policies that 
will improve outcomes and the overall well-being of foster youth and 
their families.

                          ____________________