May: foster parent appreciation month
•May 13, 2026•
The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) is recognizing May as Foster Parent Appreciation Month, a time to acknowledge and celebrate the extraordinary foster families and relative and kinship caregivers across the state who have opened their hearts, their homes, and their lives to care for the state’s most vulnerable children. “Our incredible foster parents, relative and kinship caregivers are our true partners as we work to transform Illinois from a child welfare system into a child well-being system,” said Illinois DCFS Director Heidi E. Mueller. “Their commitment not only helps create brighter futures for children, but it also strengthens our shared vision – that every child and youth can grow and thrive in a family.”