November 2024: Adoption Month

WHEREAS, approximately 10,000 children in Michigan live away from their families in foster care and every year, an estimated 2,000 children in foster care have the goal of adoption and are legally ready to be adopted; and,

WHEREAS, during fiscal year 2024, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and contracted private adoption agency partners provided permanency for approximately 1,500 children through adoption; and,

WHEREAS, a stable family bond is a right that every child deserves, regardless of age, condition or life circumstance; and,

WHEREAS, the State of Michigan and MDHHS remain committed to supporting and serving the needs of children and families who have adopted or hope to adopt in the future; and,

WHEREAS, our sincere appreciation goes out to the committed adoption professionals who put in endless effort and compassion to assist adoptive families; and,

WHEREAS, during this month, we join with MDHHS, Michigan courts, and private adoption agency partners throughout the state to raise awareness of adoption and the benefits of adoption for children;

NOW, THEREFORE,I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim November 2024 as Adoption Month in Michigan. Together, we can help build a brighter future for our state and continue to provide hope to many more children in the year to come.