# What "National Kinship Care Month" Actually Means

This bill is a symbolic gesture that designates September 2023 as "National Kinship Care Month." In practical terms, this means Congress is officially recognizing and drawing attention to kinship care—a situation where relatives other than parents (like grandparents, aunts, uncles, or older siblings) step in to raise children. The bill doesn't create any new laws, programs, or funding; it's essentially a formal statement of support for these caregivers and the important role they play in their communities.

Kinship care happens when children can't live with their parents due to circumstances like parental illness, addiction, incarceration, or death. Rather than entering the foster care system, these kids stay with family members who are willing to raise them. The bill acknowledges that these relatives often take on this responsibility with little government support or public recognition, even though they're providing a crucial service to their communities and keeping families together.

While this designation won't directly change anyone's life or provide new benefits, it serves as a way to raise public awareness about kinship caregivers and the challenges they face. It might encourage policymakers to think more seriously about supporting these families through future legislation, funding, or programs. For the relatives raising their grandchildren or other family members' children, it's a moment of official recognition that their work matters and deserves attention from the government and the public.

Expressing support for the designation of September 2023 as "National Kinship Care Month".

Kamlager-Dove, Sydney

 <p>This resolution expresses support for the designation of National Kinship Care Month and encourages Congress to work to improve outcomes for kinship caregivers and their families.</p>