Secretary Xavier Becerra issued a statement on September 1, 2024, marking Kinship Care Month. He emphasized the importance of children being with their families and acknowledged the challenges many families face due to persistent poverty and inequality, particularly those from underserved rural areas and communities of color.
Becerra highlighted the critical role played by grandparents, aunts, uncles, other relatives, and close family friends in providing support and care for children when their families need extra help. He noted that kinship fostering offers stability and security for children by allowing them to stay in familiar surroundings and maintain important relationships.
"This month, we honor the millions of Americans who take on the responsibility of helping families who need extra support, including caring for our most vulnerable children," Becerra stated.
Reflecting on his career, Becerra mentioned his work providing legal aid to families dealing with foster care issues. His commitment continued through his tenure in Congress and as Attorney General of California. As Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), he expressed pride in significant advancements made in child welfare.
"This year alone, we have published new rules that support the thousands of dedicated kinship and foster families around the country," Becerra said. "We have also invested in community-based child abuse and neglect prevention programs that help to prevent the conditions that lead to kids entering foster care in the first place."
Becerra called for renewed efforts to support children and families in need during Kinship Care Month. "Let us redouble our efforts to support children and families in need and honor the sacrifices being made by kin who commit to helping children and families facing the greatest needs," he urged. "We are in this together. We have your back."
