[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 128, 113th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 9111--APR. 30, 2014

Proclamation 9111 of April 30, 2014

National Foster Care Month, 2014

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Every child deserves to grow, learn, and dream in a supportive and
loving environment. During National Foster Care Month, we recognize the
almost 400,000 young people in foster care and the foster parents and
dedicated professionals who are making a difference in their lives. We
also rededicate ourselves to giving every child a sense of stability and
a safe place to call home.
While the number of young people in foster care has fallen, those still
there face many challenges, including finding mentors to guide their
transition into adulthood and getting the support to make that
transition a success. One third of foster children are teenagers, in
danger of aging out of a system that failed to find them a permanent
family.
Across our Nation, ordinary Americans are answering the call to open
their hearts and homes to foster children. From social workers and
teachers to family members and friends, countless individuals are doing
their part to help these striving young people realize their full
potential. My Administration remains committed to doing our part. This
year, the Affordable Care Act will extend Medicaid coverage up to age 26
for children who have aged out of foster care, allowing them to more
easily access quality, affordable health coverage. We are working to
break down barriers so every qualified caregiver can become an adoptive
or foster parent. Additionally, in the past year, we awarded grants to
States, tribes, and local organizations to give communities new
strategies to help foster children, including methods for finding
permanent families, preventing long-term homelessness of young people
aging out of foster care, and supporting their behavioral and mental
health needs.
This month, and all year long, let us all recognize that each of us has
a part to play in ensuring America's foster children achieve their full

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potential. Together, we can reach the day where every child has a safe,
loving, and permanent home.
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 May 2014 as National
Foster Care Month. I call upon all Americans to observe this month by
taking time to help youth in foster care and recognizing the commitment
of all who touch their lives.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of
April, in the year of our Lord two thousand fourteen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
eighth.
BARACK OBAMA