For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
October 29, 2002
National Family Caregivers Month, 2002
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
One of our most important responsibilities as citizens is to give
back to our communities. Individuals who care for loved ones in their
homes demonstrate the compassionate spirit of America. During National
Family Caregivers Month, we honor these individuals who bring hope and
comfort to their fellow citizens in need.
America's family caregivers are vital to the strength of our
communities. Through specialized care for family members with
disabilities or those who are aging or chronically ill, millions of
caregivers help their loved ones live in a comforting environment. As
the size of our elderly population continues to grow, home care
increasingly represents an important, dignified, and compassionate
alternative for countless individuals.
To support and train families at all stages of caregiving, the
Administration on Aging provides community-based assistance through the
"National Family Caregiver Support Program." This network of community
service providers, faith-based organizations, tribal organizations,
State and local agencies on aging, and hundreds of thousands of
volunteers informs caregivers that they are not alone, and that help is
always available through counseling, support groups, training, respite
care, and supplemental services.
As we work to build a culture of service, responsibility, and
compassion, caregivers continue to bring our families and communities
together. Through their efforts to assist loved ones in need, family
caregivers demonstrate the true spirit of our Nation.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution
and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2002 as
National Family Caregivers Month. I encourage all Americans to pause
to honor the family members, friends, and neighbors who shoulder
caregiving responsibilities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-ninth
day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-seventh.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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