Court proclaims May Foster Care Month; local leaders highlight increased vouchers and community-based care readiness

Hidalgo County Commissioners Court on May 13, 2025 adopted a proclamation recognizing May 2025 as National Foster Care Month. Presenters and guests urged expanded local capacity and services as the state moves toward community-based care models for child welfare.

Carlos Villalon Jr., a child welfare judge who addressed the court, said community-based care (CBC) is coming to Texas and will shift management of services toward local providers. He said CBC can improve outcomes if communities are prepared with more foster homes, local services for parents (mental health and substance‑use treatment) and supports for youth aging out of care. "Communities know their children best, and local control can lead to better outcomes," Villalon said.

Commissioner Gunther reported that the county has increased the number of vouchers available to youth aging out of foster care. "Before, it was 8. Now we have about 58. We haven't started using them yet, but they're out there," Gunther said, adding the vouchers are worth about $500 a month and that tuition assistance is also available for those who choose college. He said the voucher allocations are in addition to existing housing authority vouchers and urged outreach to get eligible youth enrolled.

The court heard remarks from local partner organizations, and the proclamation encourages community volunteer support and interagency collaboration to help children and youth maintain permanency and access services.

Ending: The court approved the proclamation by voice vote. Presenters called for increased foster homes and local services ahead of the planned transition to community-based care in the region.