[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 123, 111th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

123 STAT. 3731
 
PROCLAMATION 8448--OCT. 30, 2009

Proclamation 8448 of October 30, 2009
National Family Caregivers Month, 2009
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

The true strength of the American family finds its roots in an
unwavering commitment to care for one another. In difficult times,
Americans come together to ensure our loved ones are comfortable and
safe. Whether caring for a parent, relative, or child, our Nation's
caregivers selflessly devote their time and energy to the well-being of
those they look after. During National Family Caregivers Month, we honor
the individuals providing essential services to family members who could
not otherwise look after themselves.
Caregiver support is at the heart of my Administration's commitment to
assisting our Nation's families. Currently, a variety of programs and
services offer help and encouragement to family caregivers. The National
Family Caregiver Support Program and the Lifespan Respite Care Act
include important resources for caregivers of children and adults, with
opportunities to receive much-needed assistance and take part in support
programs with other families. These programs allow individuals to remain
with their families for as long as possible while helping to ensure the
wellness of participating care providers.

My Administration's dedication to caregivers is also embodied in our
efforts to develop policies to support workers trying to manage their
responsibilities on the job and at home. Families are best able to care
for their loved ones when they can take time away from work without fear
of losing their job or their income. We all have roles to play,
including employers, by providing paid leave, flexible work
arrangements, and other programs when feasible, to help ensure that
caregivers are able to successfully meet their work and household
responsibilities.
Every day, family caregivers assist loved ones with tasks ranging from
personal care and homemaking, to transportation and financial
assistance. As the foundation of America's long-term care system, these
individuals give millions of Americans the peace of mind and security
that only family can provide.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2009 as
National Family Caregivers Month. I encourage all Americans to pay
tribute and support those who are caring for their family members,
friends, and neighbors in need of assistance.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
fourth.
BARACK OBAMA