CA ACR196

Declares May 2022 as Foster Care Month in California to recognize children and youth in foster care and those who support them.

Acknowledges approximately 60,000 California children and youth currently in foster care who need safe, permanent family connections and adequate preparation for adulthood.

Recognizes the contributions of relatives, foster parents, adoptive parents, and organizations working to support foster youth and improve child welfare outcomes.

Commits California to addressing disproportionate representation of Black, Indigenous, and youth of color in the foster care system and improving outcomes for children of color who experience more placements and lower reunification rates.

Notes that 1 in 4 foster youth experience homelessness after exiting care before age 23 and acknowledges challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic for educational achievement and mental health services.