Why Not Me? Why Can’t I Have a Family?
National Adoption Awareness Month Highlights Children Awaiting Adoption
Thousands of children in Texas Foster Care ask themselves, “Why not me? Why can’t I have a family?” Last year, more than 5,468 children got the answer they were looking for when they were adopted into their own forever family, but the quest continues for more homes and more children who are still waiting for a home of their own. More than 6,800 children in the care of the State of Texas are waiting to be adopted.
Older children tend to linger even longer in foster care, so this November, which is National Adoption Awareness Month, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) is asking caring adults “Why not you? Why not adopt an older child?”
There are many events this month all across the state that will put the spotlight on the many children waiting for a permanent family.
More Texas children were adopted from state care last year than ever before. In fact, the number of children adopted from state care increased 62 percent over the last decade, but the need for safe and loving homes actually increased by 35 percent during the same period.
“We’ve made great strides getting children adopted, but Texas is growing fast and the need for safe, permanent homes is greater than ever,” said DFPS Commissioner John Specia. “If you can help, please get involved in making a child’s dream come true.”
Texas needs adoptive parents for children of all ages. Some of these children have special medical, physical, or emotional needs. The one thing they all have in common is the need for a forever family.
What greater gift than the gift of family? Children are waiting at AdoptChildren.org. Find out more about becoming an adoptive parent, because no child should ask the question, “Why not me? Why can’t I have a family?”
Why Not Me Facts
•There are approximately 6,800 children in foster care legally free to be adopted.
•5,468 children were adopted from Texas foster care in fiscal year 2015.
•You need to be 21years of age to adopt a child in Texas.
•Free adoption preparation classes are available through DFPS.
•Children adopted from the state may be eligible for a waiver on college tuition and fees.
•Adoptions from state care increased 62 percent from FY 2006 to FY 2015.
For more information, visit: http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/…/About_TARE/Adoption/events.asp
