LANSING - Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm has proclaimed May 2009 as Foster Care Month in Michigan in recognition of foster parents, the child welfare professionals working in our state, and the people and the programs that aid children in foster care.

The Michigan Department of Human Services, Bethany Christian Services and D.A. Blodgett for Children today hosted an event in Grand Rapids observing Foster Care Month.

"Foster Care Month is an opportunity to thank the families and agencies that provide support, affection, love and security to children in foster care," said Kent County DHS acting Director of the Bureau of Child Welfare Savator Selden-Johnson. "It also gives us a chance to get the message out that we are always in need of new foster and adoptive families," she added. "It's an ideal time to stress the importance of establishing a permanent placement for children who are wards of the state."

DHS, which oversees the state's foster care system, provides placement and supervision for children who are temporary or permanent state wards, including children who cannot stay in their homes because their parents cannot provide minimal care and supervision. DHS foster care services focus on resolving the problems that led to the child's removal and providing stability and a permanent placement for the child.

The goal is to return a child to his or her parents. When that is not possible, children are placed in a safe and loving licensed foster home or with a relative.

Michigan's foster care system currently serves about 16,800 children and youths. Of those children, almost 4,000 are available and waiting for adoption.

Brian De Vos, director of Michigan Operations for Bethany Christian Services noted, "Foster Care Month is a time to recognize the generous families who step up to become foster parents, and also a time to raise awareness of the need for more dedicated families who will foster, mentor or adopt a vulnerable child in need of a family. Our community is committed to meeting the needs of these children and their families."

Sharon Loughridge, executive director of D.A. Blodgett for Children, said: "Foster parents are the heart and soul of our program to provide safe, nurturing homes to children who have come to us abused and neglected. They are a critical piece to the puzzle in providing love, modeling, support and guidance to these children.

In 2009, D.A. Blodgett for Children had 92 percent of its foster children eligible to graduate from high school do so, Loughride said. Of those, 82 percent have been accepted to or have enrolled in college. About 15 percent of youth exiting foster care go on to enroll in college, Casey Foundation statistics suggest.

"We believe the success of our youth being accepted into college is a tribute to each youth's hard work and the foster parents who diligently stand beside them encouraging their efforts," Loughride said.

To become licensed foster parents, applicants must complete background checks, provide medical statements, have a home inspection and provide references.

For more information, please visit the DHS Web site at www.michigan.gov/fostercare.

For information on Bethany Christian Services visit www.bethany.org and for information on D. A. Blodgett for Children, please visit http://www.dablodgett.org/