HOUSE MEMORIAL 64

54th legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - second session, 2020

INTRODUCED BY

Rebecca Dow and Kelly K. Fajardo and Willie D. Madrid and

Gregg Schmedes and Karen C. Bash

A MEMORIAL

DECLARING FEBRUARY 13, 2020 "FOSTER PARENT AND ADVOCATE DAY" IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

     WHEREAS, hundreds of New Mexicans serve as foster parents to children who are removed from their homes, through no fault of their own, because the homes are not safe places for them; and

     WHEREAS, foster parents provide unconditional love, care and commitment to displaced children; and

     WHEREAS, according to the children, youth and families department, in fiscal year 2018, there were two thousand five hundred thirty-one children in foster care; and

     WHEREAS, foster parents participated in three hundred eleven finalized adoptions; and

     WHEREAS, foster parents are ready to receive a child at a moment's notice, without any previous knowledge or information about the child or how long the child will need their care; and

     WHEREAS, foster parents exemplify selflessness and community by building positive connections and experiences for foster children by doing their best to provide stability and security for those children; and

     WHEREAS, foster parents open their homes and their hearts to children who need love and support, while respecting and fostering connections to the children's culture, religion and community; and

     WHEREAS, foster parents help children in foster care realize that they are not alone and that others care for them; and

     WHEREAS, foster parents help children build self-esteem and confidence and provide structure that will contribute to healthy and engaging lives; and

     WHEREAS, foster parents have the joy and privilege of parenting and learning from children who did not decide to be placed under the state's care but, like all children, have so much to offer;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that February 13, 2020 be declared "Foster Parent and Advocate Day" in the house of representatives; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this memorial be transmitted to the secretary of children, youth and families.

- 3 -