(AP) – Advocates for the more than 5,600 Kansas children in the state’s foster care system are gathering at the Statehouse to raise awareness and support.

The event started Monday with a proclamation signing by Gov. Sam Brownback. The goal is to increase awareness about foster care and help children find homes.

May is Foster Care Month in Kansas and advocates put on an informational fair on the Statehouse grounds coordinated by the Kansas Department for Children and Family Services. Blue wristbands were distributed to show support for foster children and efforts to find them homes.

The agenda also included remarks by Kansas lawmakers and members of groups that help children and families with foster care and adoption services.