House Republican Press Release

May 15, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

REPRESENTATIVE CARSON SUPPORTS STATE INITIATIVE TO ENCOURAGE MORE FAMILIES TO ADOPT OR BECOME FOSTER PARENTS

   State Representative Mary Ann Carson today expressed support for efforts by the state Department of Children and Families (DCF) and the Connecticut Association of Foster and Adoptive Parents (CAFAP) promoting National Foster Care Month with a radio campaign to recruit families and mentors for children in need.

            According to DCF, the agency recently held a ceremony at the Legislative Office Building honoring 19 selected foster parents from around Connecticut. DCF and CAFAP previewed the “Help a Child Shine” campaign, which uses radio ads featuring real families and children as well as public service announcements by Governor M. Jodi Rell. The campaign, developed by the Connecticut Radio Network, also includes a new Web site, print advertising and community events.

            In preparing for the campaign, DCF commissioned the University of Connecticut to find out why foster parents chose to help children in state care and whether they are satisfied with their experiences. The UConn survey of 401 foster parents reported that:

·        87 percent said their foster parenting experience was very favorable or somewhat favorable

·        79 percent said they have a very or somewhat favorable opinion of the foster care system in Connecticut

·        79 percent strongly or somewhat agreed that the state provides adequate support services

·        90 percent strongly or somewhat agreed that the state provides adequate training for foster parents

·        80 percent said that the overall process of becoming a foster parent was excellent or good

            The survey also found that people become foster parents for the following reasons:

·        92 percent said making a difference in the life of a child was a very important reason

·        88 percent said their love for children was a very important reason

·        81 percent said giving back to the community was a very important or somewhat important reason

·        97 percent said giving children a safe and loving home was a very important reason

            DCF Acting Commissioner Brian E. Mattiello said the survey shows that the state can be proud its foster care system in Connecticut.

            For information about fostering, adopting or mentoring a child, please go to the recruitment campaign’s new website at www.helpachildshine.com or call 1-888-KID-HERO. Rep. Carson will provide further details on DCF’s foster care program in a column next week.