Madam Speaker,  I rise today in support of H.Res. 391, which recognizes May as National Foster Care Month and calls for continued improvements in our foster care system.  My parents welcomed many foster children into our family, and I know firsthand the value – and the challenges - of the foster care system.

All children need love and support.  That is especially true for the more than half a million children currently in foster care, and many more who still need help.  We also must address the issues affecting older youth as they transition out of foster care.  Research shows that current and former foster youth are more likely to have difficulty making the transition to adulthood, are more likely to forego higher education, be in poor health, become homeless, and rely on public supports. They deserve better, and we can do better.

Further, let me thank the compassionate individuals who take in foster children.  Foster parenting is an act of true selflessness, requiring a significant financial and emotional investment.  Many foster children have been abused or neglected -- treatment that leaves indelible scars, which foster parents lovingly attempt to heal.

Thank you, Madam Speaker.