November Is National Adoption Month in Vermont

November 13, 2024

Waterbury, VT- Governor Phil Scott recently proclaimedNovember as Adoption Monthin Vermont.

"Adoption makes a significant difference in the lives of children who need a permanent, loving home to grow up in," said Governor Phil Scott. "I am appreciative of those who have stepped up and opened their homes to offer a stable and safe environment and encourage others to do the same."

"This month also recognizes the importance of children's connections to their family of origin. This can happen either through post-adoption contact, or through reunification with birth families," said Chris Winters, Commissioner for the Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF). Reunification occurs with nearly half of the children who come to the DCF's attention.

Project Family, a partnership between Lund and DCF, works to find permanent families for children and youth. However, more families are needed, especially for teens, since the chances of a child under 8 years old being adopted are almost nine times greater than for one over 14.

In 2023:

• 164 children and youth were adopted following DCF involvement, 88 of which were adoptions with kinship caregivers.
• There were 61 agreements for ongoing contact between birth parents and children. These numbers highlight the value of connection to a child's birth family.
• There were over 2,000 children living in Vermont who joined their family through adoption or guardianship through the child welfare system, in addition to the children who have joined their family through private adoptions.
• Over 263 families received free Post Permanency Servicesstatewide.

Many resources exist for families post adoption or guardianship. The Vermont Consortium for Adoption & Guardianship is an organization comprised of adopted individuals, adoptive caregivers, community members, and professionals which works to support families formed through adoption and guardianship in Vermont. Visit theirwebsitefor more information about resources, such as support groups, events, training opportunities, and free post permanency support services.

You can also learn how you can help a child in need of a family by calling Project Family at 1-800-746-7000 or visiting the Project Family Website.