Starting in 2015, New York’s legislature and Governor Cuomo issued proclamations recognizing these unsung heroes by declaring September as “Kinship Care Month”, an action that has been replicated by 7 states, and the United States Senate. Around the state, during September, many local agencies take time to celebrate caregivers.  

 

Each year, the NYS Kinship Navigator hosts a celebration in Albany to honor caregivers from all across New York.  Last year’s event was attended by over 80 professionals and caregivers, including Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo, University at Albany Provost Darrell Wheeler, and the Office of Children and Family Services Acting Commissioner Sheila Poole.

 

NYS kinship Navigator will host a luncheon, present awards, and celebrate kinship families.  This year they will publish a celebration program, in which you can purchase advertising space. See attached program ad description: Kinship Care Month 2017 Ad Sheet. The event will be hosted by the NYS Bar Association at its Elk Street offices on September 19, 2017. By donating, you will help us honor caregivers who selflessly devote themselves to New York’s 300,000 kinship children.