Vermont Governor Phil Scott recently proclaimed November as Adoption Month in Vermont, recognizing the importance of making sure every child has a permanent, safe, and loving family.
Adoption Month is a time to:
- Celebrate and honor all people whose lives are touched by adoption.
- Focus attention on children and youth still waiting for their forever families. There are currently about 100 waiting children in Vermont.
Project Family, a partnership between Lund and the Department for Children and Families (DCF), works to find permanent families for children and youth. But more families are needed, especially for youth over the age of 14. The chances of a child under eight being adopted are almost nine times greater than for one over 14.
In 2021:
- 201 children and youth were adopted following DCF involvement.
- There were 81 agreements for ongoing contact between the birth parents and children. These numbers highlight the value of connection to a child’s birth family.
The Heart Gallery
Many young people choose to participate in Vermont’s Heart Gallery. It can be viewed online at dcf.vermont.gov/fsd/adopt/waiting. This year, we’re partnering with area organizations to bring the Heart Gallery to Vermont communities.
Vermonters will have an opportunity to view the Heart Gallery exhibit at the 8th Annual Quechee Artisan Fair at the Quechee Club on Saturday, November 25th and Sunday, the 26th. We appreciate the Crafty Ladies of the Upper Valley and the Family Place for partnering with us and supporting Vermont’s kids.
If your organization is interested in hosting a Heart Gallery exhibition, please contact vtadoption@vermont.gov. It’s a wonderful opportunity to show your support for Vermont children and youth.
Adoption Month is also a time to recognize and celebrate that more than 50% of the children and youth who come to DCF’s attention successfully reunify with their birth families.
To learn how you can help a child in need of a family, call Project Family at 1-800-746-7000 or go to http://www.projectfamily.vt.gov.