The impact and importance of adoption in our country needs to be recognized and acknowledged. Therefore, I am very appreciative of President Obama’s speech for National Adoption Month this November. His presidential proclamation came out on October 27, 2016 and stated that, “Each November, we recognize the important role that adoption has played in the lives of children and families in our country and around the world, and we rededicate ourselves to ensuring every child can find their forever family.”

The proclamation addressed the importance of finding homes for the over 100,000 children waiting to be adopted and the serious issues confronting children who age out of the system.

President Obama stated that he has tried to help, one way being by extending the adoption tax credits. Unfortunately, the adoption process is costly. But I can personally tell you that the tax credit has a big impact for a family that has adopted.

I love that the government designates a month in which to emphasize adoption and the waiting children in foster care. Throughout the month, there are many various events held throughout the country. One event is National Adoption Day, a day on which thousands of children are adopted each year. There are also numerous agencies, one being Nationaladoptionday.org, that host events country-wide. I ask that you support this month of advocating by researching and attending events in your area so that adoption of our children in our country will continue to grow.

“One of the most important jobs many of us will ever have is being a parent. Throughout National Adoption Month, we celebrate all those who have invited a child in need into their hearts and into their homes, and we express our profound appreciation for all who help make adoptions possible. Let us continue strengthening the adoption process so that all children can learn, grow, and thrive with the support of a devoted and permanent family.”

You can read the proclamation here.