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OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

GOVERNMENT HOUSE



Charlotte Amalie, V.I. 00802

340-774-0001



FOSTER CARE MONTH



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BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS OF THE UNITED STATES



HAREAEEARARERAKE



A PROCLAMATION



The youth of the United States Virgin Islands are our most precious resource and

hope for the future, all children deserve a safe, loving and nurturing place to call home.



There are approximately 150 children and youth in the foster care system in the

United States Virgin Islands.



All young people in foster care need a meaningful connection to a caring adult who

becomes a supportive and lasting presence in their lives.



Foster families are unsung heroes that serve as the primary source of love,

protection, and support to the abused and neglected children of the United States Virgin

Islands.



Foster families who open their homes and hearts to children who are in crisis play

a Vital role in helping children and families heal and reconnect thereby launching children

towards a successful adulthood.



Dedicated foster families frequently adopt foster children, resulting in a greater

need for more foster families.



We honor foster parents who have demonstrated the depth and kindness of human

heart and thank those families that have strengthened the United States Virgin Islands by

caring for children and youth in foster care.



There are numerous social workers in the Department of Human Services,

individuals, public and private organizations who work tirelessly to increase public

awareness of the needs of children in foster care as well as the enduring and valuable

Proclamation — Foster Care Month

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contribution of foster parents, and recognize that the foster care system is only as good as

those who choose to be a part of it.



NOW, THEREFORE, |, Kenneth E. Mapp, Governor of the Virgin Islands of the

United States, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Revised Organic Act of 1954,

as amended, do hereby proclaim the month of May 2017, as Foster Care Month in the

Virgin Islands. I call upon the people of the Virgin Islands to join me in helping to protect

our children. I extend great appreciation to our social workers and all those professionals

who work on behalf of children.



IN WITNESS, WHEREOF, | have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of

the Government of the Virgin Islands of the United States to be affixed at Charlotte Amalie,

St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, this 25" day of April, 2017, A.D.



Kenneth 'E. Mapp



Governor



Attest: <

Osbert E. Potter

Lieutenant Governor



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