The Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) will celebrate parents and families throughout the month after Gov. Jay Inslee proclaimed February as “Parent Recognition Month” Jan. 21.

The governor cited unprecedented struggles faced by families this year and praised parents and caregivers who have stepped up during the pandemic. The DCYF, in partnership with Child magazine, based out of Seattle, plans to honor standout parents, caregivers, guardians and community members at this year’s virtual Unsung Heroes ceremony.

The DCYF recognizes 28 parents and caregivers each year from across the state for their roles with families, schools and communities and their “demonstration of the protective factors known to help reduce child abuse and neglect.”

Debra Johnson, director of communications for DCYF, said the ceremony is a way for the organization to focus on and highlight, not just parents, but caregivers who have steeped up in their role during the pandemic.

“They’ve had to not only be parent or caregiver, but be teacher, lunchroom manager, and community support for young people and children and their families all due to the pandemic,” Johnson said. “This is an opportunity to recognize how they have risen to the occasion even under so much demand.”

Johnson said DCYF is focused on supporting and strengthening families and continuing to create opportunities and resources to support them at this time. She said they have had to almost normalize stress in families during the pandemic, but see this as an opportunity to offer up hope and recognition.

The Unsung Heroes Award Ceremony will be Feb. 25. DCYF and Seattle’s Child magazine will feature an honoree each day throughout the month on social media.

Casey McCarthy can be reached via email at cmccarthy@columbiabasinherald.com.