HI HR101

Urges faith-based organizations in Hawaii to network and cooperate to support foster families, including by forming foster family ministries.

Notes 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.

Recognizes Kokua `Ohana, a collaborative program between the Partners in Development Foundation and the Department of Human Services, which works with churches and community organizations to recruit, train, and support foster families.

Identifies that Kokua `Ohana offers assistance to churches in building foster family ministries, training members, developing action plans, and supporting prospective foster parents through the licensing process.

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