November is National Adoption Month — a special time to celebrate families that have grown through adoption and raise awareness of the thousands of children in foster care across the United States and Canada who are waiting for someone to step forward to adopt them.
Youth like Merriah, who was placed in foster care after enduring abuse and neglect. Thankfully, Merriah’s journey changed when she was referred to the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption’s Wendy’s Wonderful Kids® program and met her adoption recruiter, Megan.
With help from Megan and the Foundation’s caring community of supporters, Merriah was adopted by Emilie and John just before she turned 15.
“It took a huge weight off my chest knowing that I didn’t have to worry about not having a home anymore,” said Merriah. “But the relief was definitely something that I struggled with. I haven’t felt relief literally at all in my life.”
Here are 4 ways you can make a difference during National Adoption Month and throughout the year:
1. Consider fostering or adoption
Every year, more than 20,000 youth age out of foster care without the stability and guidance of a permanent family. Download our free step-by-step guide to adoption to learn more and get started on your adoption journey.
2. Organize a “Thank A Recruiter” card-writing activity
Because of the tireless efforts of Wendy’s Wonderful Kids recruiters, more than 13,000 children across the United States and Canada now have a permanent home. But our work isn’t done yet.
Invite colleagues, friends and family to write cards and digital thank you notes to Wendy’s Wonderful Kids adoption professionals for the life-changing impact they make every day.
3. Pack Care Kits for children lingering in foster care
Children in foster care frequently move from home to home with nothing but a small bag in which to carry their belongings. As a result, they often lack the necessary hygiene items to care for themselves.
Show your support for these young people by packing Care Kits, including necessities like deodorant, shampoo and toothpaste.
4. Spread the word
Raise awareness about the urgent need for foster care adoption by following the Foundation on X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Threads, and subscribing to our YouTube channel.
You can also add impact to your inbox by joining our mailing list for monthly emails with news, resources, stories and more. Then, forward to a friend!
Together, we will achieve the vision that every child will have a permanent home and a loving family. Thank you!
PS: Did you know November 18 is National Adoption Day? Learn more at nationaladoptionday.org and join in the celebration by showing your support on social media.
