HI HCR111

Urges faith-based organizations in Hawaii to network and cooperate to support foster families through initiatives such as forming foster family ministries.

Highlights that more than 4,000 children entered foster care in Hawaii in 2006, with 45 percent of foster children being of Hawaiian or part Hawaiian descent.

Describes Kokua `Ohana, a collaborative program between the Partners in Development Foundation and the Department of Human Services that recruits, trains, and supports foster families through churches and community organizations in the native Hawaiian community.

States that foster family ministries can help recruit and support foster families, distribute donations, mentor new foster families, and improve communication between churches and state social workers.

Directs certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to the Governor, Director of Human Services, Director of Kokua `Ohana, Executive Director of Hawaii Youth Services Network, and President of Family Programs Hawaii.