House 5

SENATE RESOLUTION 5

(By Senators Oliverio and Hamilton)

[Introduced January 14, 2026]

Designating January 14, 2026, as Foster Care Child Welfare Day at the Capitol.

Whereas, Children, youth, and families are at the heart of West Virginia’s child welfare system.  Policies and practices are most effective when they prioritize safety, permanency, well-being, and family connection; and

Whereas, Children grow and thrive best when they are supported by stable families, engaged communities, and responsive systems of care that reflect the real experiences of those they serve; and

Whereas, West Virginia’s child welfare system touches the lives of children, youth, families, caregivers, and communities in every region of the state; and

Whereas, Children, youth, parents, caregivers, and families with lived experience offer essential insight into what strengthens families and how systems can more effectively support long-term stability and success; and

Whereas, Meaningful collaboration across systems and cross-sector partners strengthens outcomes and promotes family-centered, sustainable solutions; and

Whereas, On January 14, 2026, child welfare partners from across the state will gather at the State Capitol for the 2026 Foster Care/Child Welfare Day at the Capitol, creating a shared space for connection, learning, and dialogue between communities and policymakers; and

Whereas, This day is hosted through the collaborative leadership of the WV CASA Association (Court Appointed Special Advocates), Fairmont State University, and the WV Schools of Diversion and Transition, reflecting a shared commitment to education, advocacy, successful transitions, and the belief that children, youth, and families thrive when communities work together; and

Whereas, This gathering reflects the shared understanding that West Virginia is stronger when we work together, remain committed to supporting families, and pursue meaningful progress through collaboration; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate:

That the Senate hereby designates January 14, 2026, as Foster Care Child Welfare Day at the Capitol; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Senate hereby recognizes the 2026 Collaborative Foster Care/Child Welfare Day at the Capitol and honors the collective efforts of those working to protect children and strengthen families across West Virginia; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Senate encourages continued collaboration, family-centered policy development, sustained engagement with children, youth, families, and support systems; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward a copy of this resolution to Dr. Brian Selmeski, Chief of Staff, Fairmont State University, Emily W. Swain, Dean of Middle College, Fairmont State University, CASA, and the WV Schools of Diversity and Transition representatives.