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For Immediate Release Contact: Jason Butkowski
September 13, 2018 609-888-7915

 

TRENTON – In reaction to recent controversy related to adoption in New Jersey, Christine Norbut Beyer, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Children and Families, issued the following statement:

"It is a great source of pride that in 2010, New Jersey was the first state in the nation to receive the Seal of Recognition from the Human Rights Campaign regarding our policies and practices in support of LGBT foster and adoptive parents. We have maintained these culturally competent practices even when faced with threats to our State’s federal funding in the past.  There are certain principles that are too important. Children are best-served in a loving family, no matter what the sexual orientation of their parents may be.

"In New Jersey, we have long-since abandoned the use of congregate care facilities for sheltering youth when removal is necessary for child protective concerns.  History and research has proven that living in orphanages can cause lasting psychological and physical damage.

"At DCF, we work to maintain children at home with their biological parents as much as possible.  In the event that imminent risk to the child's safety is present, and removal is necessary we look to placement with extended family members, or with resource (foster) families.  If family reunification is not possible, an adoptive family, providing permanency to the child, is sought. A loving family, regardless of race, religion, gender, marital status or sexual orientation, is always the best option!

"Families come in many different configurations, and we are committed to ensuring that every family we connect with has the support and the resources they need to be successful."