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WHEREAS, Family Services of Western Pennsylvania has declared the month of May to be "Foster Care Awareness Month"; and
WHEREAS, Family Services of Western Pennsylvania (FSWP) and its predecessor agencies have been providing foster care services to the children of Allegheny County since 1885; and
WHEREAS, Family Services of Western Pennsylvania aims to build the capabilities and skills in families and individuals to direct their own lives, promote recovery and resiliency and create a productive, caring community; and
WHEREAS, Family Services offers a comprehensive training and support network for foster parents, in addition to requiring all applicant families to complete 40 hours of pre-service training; and
WHEREAS, the foster care homes provide not only a family environment, but also meet the children's fundamental needs for safety, shelter, stimulation and nurturance, while helping to raise development levels and self-esteem; and
WHEREAS, on Sunday, May 20, 2007, Family Services will honor the 55 foster families that are serving this year, and the legacy of foster parents that have served over the past 122 years, at its annual Foster Parent Recognition Dinner.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh recognizes Family Services of Western Pennsylvania for its dedication to providing foster care services, and thanks the foster families for their commitment; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh hereby declares May 8, 2007, "Foster Care Awareness Month" in the City of Pittsburgh.