On any given day, over 442,000 children are living in foster care across the country, many of whom are awaiting adoption by a loving, caring family. It is the goal of every child welfare agency to find a permanent placement for each child in foster care, but each year, approximately 20,000 youth exit the foster care system without a legal family. These children are often already at a disadvantage due to early experiences of abuse, neglect, and trauma, and they can end up with no support network to turn to in times of crisis.
The Adoption Opportunities Program provides a unique opportunity for states, counties, tribes, and private organizations to invest in locally-designed, evidence-based solutions to find families for these youth and provide them with the support they need to thrive. From adoptive family recruitment to post-adoption services and caseworker training, Adoption Opportunities funds crucial programs that support foster youth.
Representatives James R. Langevin (D-RI) and Don Bacon (R-NE) are circulating a Dear Colleague appropriations letter in support of a funding increase for the Adoption Opportunity program. We want to build support!