California: Governor Newsom proclaims Foster Care Month
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~ Sacramento, CA - Governor Gavin Newsom has declared May 2026 as "Foster Care Month" in California. In a proclamation issued today, the governor reaffirmed the state's commitment to supporting the more than 40,000 foster children and youth in California and expressed gratitude to the thousands of foster families who provide stability and care during critical development stages.

The proclamation recognizes that all children deserve a safe, loving, and permanent home. However, foster youth face unique challenges such as separation from their biological families at a young age, frequent uprooting, and exposure to adverse childhood experiences. As a result, they are more likely to face difficulties in both the short and long term, with lower graduation rates and higher rates of homelessness as adults.

Governor Newsom stated that California is dedicated to doing right by all young people and is actively working to ensure that the most vulnerable youth have everything they need to thrive. The state has implemented programs to support and educate parents and families in order to keep families together and reduce foster care entries. As a result of these efforts, there has been a 32 percent decrease in the number of children in foster care over the past five years.

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In cases where children must enter the system, California prioritizes home-based family care over group homes. This decision is based on recognizing the importance of a stable and loving support system for these children. The governor emphasized that consistency and care are critical for a healthy childhood, which is why foster families play such an important role.

While half of all foster children are eventually reunited with their families and about a quarter are adopted, some age out of the system without finding permanent homes. To address this issue, California launched two pilot programs in 2023 that provide guaranteed income for foster youth aging out of the system. This support aims to meet their basic needs and disrupt the cycle of poverty. Additionally, the state is creating pathways to careers through the Master Plan for Career Education and making financial supports more accessible for those attending college. This includes investing in the CalKIDS program, which sets up child savings accounts of up to $1,500 for every foster child. The Middle Class Scholarship has also been expanded to cover tuition and fees for University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) students with experience in foster care. Furthermore, community colleges, CSUs, and UCs have established programs to help former foster youth successfully transition to college life and adulthood.

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Governor Newsom emphasized that every foster child deserves to grow up happy, healthy, and loved. He expressed gratitude to the many foster families across the state who have answered the call to provide a safe haven for these children. However, he also recognized the need for more loving families to open their homes and change kids' lives for the better. The governor stated that it takes a village to raise a child, and California is proud to play its part in doing so.

In conclusion, Governor Newsom officially proclaimed May 2026 as "Foster Care Month" in California. He urged all citizens of the state to join in recognizing and supporting the thousands of foster children and youth who deserve a safe and loving home. The proclamation was signed on May 17th, 2026 with Governor Newsom's signature and the Great Seal of the State of California affixed.

This news comes on the heels of other recent announcements from Governor Newsom's office, including celebrating 100 community designations across the state through his Clean California initiative and declaring May as Mental Health Awareness Month. Additionally, $80 million in funding has been awarded to 343 nonprofit and faith-based organizations following a recent shooting at a San Diego mosque. Since 2015, California has invested $300 million in safety measures to protect these organizations from hate and violence.

As Foster Care Month begins in California, it is clear that the state is committed to providing support and resources for its most vulnerable youth. With continued efforts and the support of foster families, California hopes to create a brighter future for all children in the foster care system.

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