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Joe Scialfa or Gina Paige ― 608-266-9000

(MADISON) – In recognition of Foster Care Month, Department of Children and Families Secretary Eloise Anderson honored foster parent Joan Klang for her incredible commitment to the children of Dane County who have needed a temporary, safe place to call home by presenting them with the 2017 Governor’s Foster Care Award.

“Foster Care Month gives us an opportunity to thank the families who care for the vulnerable children in Wisconsin who need to be removed from their homes for their own protection,” said Secretary Anderson. “Foster parents offer these children shelter and play a critical role in helping them take the first step of their journey towards healing and recovery.”

Fostering children for 40 years, Mrs. Klang has opened her home to over 130 children and youth. Joan was an early adopter of having the goal to reunite children with their biological parents. In working towards reunification, she has served as a mentor and source of support to countless parents trying to make the changes needed to bring their children home. She has helped many children overcome traumatic experiences and gain hope for the future by providing them acceptance, respect and commitment.

“For those times when children must be placed in out-of-home care, foster families step in to keep them safe, nurture them, and give them a place to call home,” stated Secretary Anderson. “I know the joys and challenges of being a foster parent can be significant, although the joys far outweigh the challenges.”

Secretary Anderson recognized Mrs. Klang, along with five other outstanding foster parents from throughout Wisconsin, at a ceremony this morning at the state Capitol.

The ceremony today also highlighted the need for additional kind, responsible adults to step forward and care for foster children. Currently in Wisconsin there are about 7,300 children living in out-of-home care. For more information on becoming a foster parent, visit https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/fostercare/become.

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