CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The West Virginia Department of Human Services joins partners across the state in recognizing National Foster Care Month, as proclaimed by Governor Patrick Morrisey.
Observed each May, this recognition highlights the vital role foster parents, kinship caregivers, child welfare professionals and community partners play in supporting children and youth who have experienced abuse, neglect or family crisis.
Reunification remains the primary goal for children in care when it is safe to do so. West Virginia has seen measurable progress in this area, with reunification rates increasing from 44% in 2023 to 51% in 2025. During the same period, the number of children in child welfare custody who were considered state wards due to termination of parental rights decreased by more than 200.
“These outcomes reflect a continued focus on connecting families with the services and support they need,” said Lorie Bragg, DoHS Bureau for Social Services Commissioner. “Strengthening families and improving stability for children remains at the center of this work.”
In recognition of National Foster Care Month, the 2026 All In Foster Care Summit, hosted by Chestnut Mountain Village, will bring together child welfare professionals, faith-based organizations, community members and families to collaborate and strengthen support systems across the state.
The summit will be held Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at Chestnut Ridge Church. The event provides an opportunity to connect, learn and build partnerships that lead to practical, lasting support for children and families.
Registration details are available at cmvwv.org.
DoHS encourages individuals and families interested in supporting children in foster care to learn more about becoming foster or kinship caregivers and to explore ways to get involved within their communities.
