1394 Oct. 31 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2008
and bringing home children in need of a Proclamation 8316—National
hopeful life. Hospice Month, 2008
My Administration is committed to help- October 31, 2008
ing young people find the love, stability, and
support that a family can provide. We have By the President of the United States
joined with community and faith-based orga- of America
nizations to raise public awareness of foster
children awaiting adoption. With the help of A Proclamation
the Congress, we are assisting families in During National Hospice Month, we
overcoming the financial barriers to adopting honor the dedicated health care professionals
children through programs such as the Adop- and volunteers who help the terminally ill
tion Incentives Program. In addition, the spend their final days in comfort and with
Collaboration to AdoptUsKids project, which dignity. Hospice care providers and other
can be found at adoptuskids.org, provides compassionate individuals are a constant re-
guidance and resources for parents exploring minder that the greatness of America lies in
adoption. the hearts and souls of its citizens.
Americans believe that every person has
During National Adoption Month, we matchless value throughout all of life’s stages.
honor adoptive and foster parents who have Hospice physicians, nurses, counselors, and
shown America the depth and kindness of volunteers put this belief into action by using
the human heart. Their love and dedication their talents and energy to care for those who
inspire the next generation of Americans to are terminally ill and by providing support
achieve their dreams and demonstrate the and comfort to their loved ones. As an alter-
true spirit of our Nation. native to traditional services, hospice care
Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, frequently provides assistance in the home
President of the United States of America, so that patients can be surrounded by family
by virtue of the authority vested in me by and friends. Hospice counselors offer guid-
the Constitution and laws of the United ance to patients, as well as to those close to
them, as they deal with grief, anxiety, and
States, do hereby proclaim November 2008
other end-of-life issues. Through these and
as National Adoption Month. I call upon all
countless other acts of compassion, our Na-
Americans to observe this month with appro-
tion’s hospice caregivers lift up souls, offer
priate programs and activities to honor adop- peace of mind, and strengthen America’s cul-
tive families and to participate in efforts to ture of life.
find permanent homes