RELEASE: November 13, 2001

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TRENTON - The Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS) honored families, organizations and staff who met the challenge of finding adoptive homes at its annual Adoption Awareness Month luncheon at the War Memorial today.

During the event, it was announced that DYFS was recently awarded an Adoption Opportunities Grant by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services / Administration on Children and Families. The grant will provide DYFS with $900,000 over the next three years to build resources, community awareness and partnerships to help more children reach the goal of adoption.

DYFS, the Association for Children of New Jersey (ACNJ) and the DYFS Adoption Services Committee, host the annual event to honor selected New Jersey families who have adopted special needs children under DYFS supervision.

"The act of rescuing a vulnerable child from the clutches of despair and danger is close to everyone’s heart," said Department of Human Services Commissioner Michele K. Guhl. "As commissioner, I am most humbled by and appreciative of the efforts of all the foster and other adoptive parents who make children feel wanted."

As part of the event, Commissioner Guhl also presented a proclamation from Governor Christie Whitman declaring November Adoption Awareness Month in New Jersey.

According to DYFS Director Charles Venti, one of DYFS’ current goals is to meet the increasing need for more adoptive homes. To meet this need, DYFS has expanded its recruitment efforts with an enhanced Web site along with an advertising campaign. In addition, DYFS has opened a sixth Adoption Resource Center (ARC) and will be adding more staff.

In addition to honoring exemplary adoptive families, DYFS and ACNJ recognized organizations and individuals that have made the commitment to help children in need.

Among this year’s honorees were participants of the Governor’s Mentoring Program. Begun in June 2000, the program focuses on mentoring children ages five through 13 in pre-adoptive treatment homes. Participants included members of Governor Whitman’s cabinet and staff.