The resolution designates September of each year as Kinship Care Month in New Jersey, highlighting the significance of kinship care, which involves the temporary or permanent care of children by relatives or close family friends instead of their biological parents. It emphasizes that kinship care is often the preferred option for children removed from their homes, as it helps maintain familial and cultural connections, provides stability and safety, and reduces trauma associated with family separation. The resolution notes that a substantial number of children in New Jersey's foster care system are placed with licensed kinship foster parents, reflecting the state's commitment to prioritizing kinship placements.
Additionally, the resolution calls for the Governor to issue an annual proclamation to recognize Kinship Care Month, encouraging public officials and citizens to engage in activities and programs that honor kinship caregivers and the children they support. This initiative aligns with national efforts to raise awareness about the contributions of kinship caregivers and the importance of their role in child welfare, as recognized by various federal and state entities since 2012.