The enactment of ACR 123 helps to reinforce the state's commitment to understanding and addressing the needs of children in kinship care along with their caregivers. This acknowledgement is essential given that more than 506,000 children in California are living with relatives, reflecting a significant demographic that is often underrepresented in discussions about child welfare. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of community support systems necessary for these caregivers, ensuring that both children and their guardians can thrive.
Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 123 (ACR 123) was introduced to declare September 2017 as Kinship Care Month in California. The resolution aims to acknowledge and celebrate the critical role that grandparent and relative caregivers play in raising children who might otherwise be in unstable or unsafe situations. By designating this month, the resolution seeks to raise awareness around the challenges and successes of children living in kinship care arrangements and to encourage public support for these families.
The general sentiment around ACR 123 is overwhelmingly positive, as it highlights the often-overlooked contributions of kinship caregivers. Legislators and advocates alike expressed their support for the bill, emphasizing that celebrating Kinship Care Month can foster greater community awareness and encourage necessary social services. Moreover, it is seen as an opportunity for recognition and appreciation of these caregivers who often navigate challenging circumstances to provide stable environments for their children.
While ACR 123 is primarily a resolution for recognition and does not impose new regulations or laws, it serves as a platform to discuss the systemic issues surrounding kinship care. Some advocates for kinship families have pointed out that more needs to be done to provide adequate resources and support to these caregivers beyond mere acknowledgment. This highlights a potential gap between recognition and actionable support, which may lead to ongoing discussions regarding the adequacy of state resources allocated to assist families in kinship care arrangements.