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National Foster Care Month

May is National Foster Care Month - join us in raising awareness and supporting children and families in the foster care system.

Saturday

1–31

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of May

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYYouth

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

May 1 marks the start of National Foster Care Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the amazing foster parents and children who make up our foster care system. This month-long observance was first established in 1988 by President Reagan to bring attention to the needs of children in foster care and encourage more individuals and families to open their hearts and homes to them. It's a time to not only raise awareness about the important role of foster families, but also celebrate the resilience and strength of these children who have experienced adversity. Let's show our support for this cause and spread love and positivity during National Foster Care Month!

TIMELINE

National Foster Care Month Timeline

Early Foster Care

Organized foster care in the United States began in the mid-1800s with private and religious organizations providing care for children in need.

Social Security Act

The Social Security Act was signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, which laid the groundwork for the modern foster care system.

Foster Care Review Act

The Foster Care Review Act of California enacted regular reviews of children's cases, influencing changes in national policy towards child welfare.

Adoption Assistance Act

The Adoption Assistance and Child Welfare Act encouraged family unification and laid foundations for current federal foster care financing provisions.

National Foster Care Month Established

President Ronald Reagan officially established May as National Foster Care Month, starting a tradition of recognizing and supporting children and families in the foster care system.

Adoption and Safe Families Act

This Act was signed into law, putting children’s safety and health as the paramount concern in foster care placements and decision making.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Foster Care Month

Become a foster parent

Take the first step in making a difference by becoming a foster parent. Contact your local foster care agency to learn about the requirements and process.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a foster care organization

Spend some time volunteering at a local foster care organization. You can help with events, mentor children, or assist with administrative tasks.

DONATE

Donate to a foster care charity

Support foster care organizations by making a donation. You can also organize a fundraiser or donate items such as clothing, toys, and school supplies.

SPREAD

Spread awareness on social media

Use your social media platforms to spread awareness about National Foster Care Month. Share statistics, personal stories, and ways to get involved.

WRITE

Write letters to foster children

Brighten a foster child's day by writing them a letter or sending them a care package. Let them know that they are not alone and that they are loved and supported.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Foster Care Month is Important

Supports positive change in the foster care system

Through advocacy efforts and community events, National Foster Care Month works towards improving the foster care system. By coming together as a community, we can push for policies that prioritize the well-being of children in foster care.

Increases awareness

National Foster Care Month is an opportunity to educate the public about the needs of children and youth in foster care. By raising awareness, we can help dispel misinformation and promote understanding and support for this vulnerable population.

Celebrates foster families and their contributions

Foster parents selflessly open their hearts and homes to children in need. National Foster Care Month is a time to recognize and celebrate these amazing individuals and their invaluable contributions to society.

Related holidays

National Adoption Month

This National Adoption Month, join us in spreading awareness and love for families formed through adoption. Let's celebrate the beautiful bonds created through adoption!

Foster Care Fortnight

Join us in recognizing and supporting the incredible families and individuals who open their hearts and homes during Foster Care Fortnight.

National Adoption Day

National Adoption Day - weaving threads of love, unifying souls and creating forever families. Celebrate the beauty of chosen love!

National Adoption Week

Expand your family, fill your heart! National Adoption Week shines a light on the joy and love that adoption brings.

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