May is National Foster Parent Appreciation Month and I would like to express my thanks to all foster parents in Maine, especially those in the Lewiston-Auburn area, for the service they provide to children and families in our community.

Maine is a state that cares about children. That fact is reflected in our commitment to provide quality education and health care services for vulnerable children and families.

We are equally as committed to responding to issues of child abuse and neglect. That effort would not be possible without the dedication of Maine’s foster families. They make an extraordinary contribution every day, opening their homes to children who need care and support. We need to thank them – in May and all year round – for the invaluable work that they do.

Daniel R. Despard,

program administrator,

Lewiston DHS,

Bureau of Child and Family Services