Bill > SJR80

This joint resolution designates September of each year as "Kinship Care Month" in New Jersey to recognize and celebrate kinship caregivers, who are relatives or close family friends providing temporary or permanent care for children when biological parents cannot. The resolution highlights that kinship care can be informal (arranged by the family) or formal (arranged by child welfare agencies) and is considered the preferred placement option for children who must be removed from their homes, as it maintains familial and cultural connections while providing stability and reducing trauma. The resolution notes that nationally, 2.5 million children live in kinship care arrangements, with 1,282 children (40 percent of foster placements) in New Jersey's foster care system living with licensed kinship foster parents in 2021. The resolution calls on the Governor to issue an annual proclamation and encourages public officials and citizens to observe the month with appropriate activities and programs that raise awareness about the critical role of kinship caregivers in supporting children's well-being.

Health and Social Services

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/SJR80