August 7, 2026
Mr. Lankford (for himself and Ms. Hassan) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to
Designating September 2026 as National Child Awareness Month
to promote awareness of charities that benefit children as well as youth-serving organizations throughout the United States and recognizing the efforts made by those charities and organizations on behalf of children and youth as critical contributions to the future of the United States.
Whereas the millions of children and youth in the United States represent the hopes and the future of the United States;
Whereas numerous individuals, charities benefitting children, and youth-serving organizations that work with children and youth collaborate to provide invaluable services to enrich and better the lives of children and youth throughout the United States;
Whereas raising awareness of and increasing support for organizations that provide access to health care, social services, education, the arts, sports, and other services will result in the development of character in, and the future success of, the children and youth of the United States;
Whereas the month of September, as the school year begins, is a time when parents, families, teachers, school administrators, and communities increase the focus on children and youth throughout the United States;
Whereas the month of September is a time for the people of the United States to highlight and be mindful of the needs of children and youth;
Whereas private corporations and businesses have joined with hundreds of national and local charitable organizations throughout the United States in support of a month-long focus on children and youth; and
Whereas a long-term commitment to children and youth is in the public interest and will encourage widespread support for charities and organizations that seek to provide a better future for the children and youth of the United States: Now, therefore, be it
That the Senate designates September 2026 as National Child Awareness Month
—
(1)
to promote awareness of—
(A)
charities that benefit children; and
(B)
youth-serving organizations throughout the United States;
(2)
to recognize the efforts made by the charities and organizations described in paragraph (1) on behalf of children and youth as critical contributions to the future of the United States; and
(3)
to recognize the importance of meeting the needs of children and youth, including children and youth who—
(A)
have experienced homelessness;
(B)
are in the foster care system;
(C)
have been victims, or are at risk of becoming victims, of child sex trafficking;
(D)
have been impacted by violence;
(E)
have experienced trauma;
(F)
have serious physical and mental health needs;
(G)
benefit from access to arts and cultural opportunities that foster creativity and self-expression; and
(H)
require educational development initiatives that address learning gaps and promote academic success.