More than three dozen children in Lucas County and more than 129,000 children nationwide are in foster care, awaiting “forever families” to adopt them.

To generate awareness of the need for adoptive families, Lucas County Children Services (LCCS) is planning a weekend of activities Nov. 1 and 2 as part of its recognition of National Adoption Month.

As many as 18 Lucas County children will have their adoptions finalized as LCCS and the Lucas County Probate Court hold their annual “Adoption Day” ceremony Saturday, Nov. 1. The event will be held at the Northwest Ohio Regional Training Center, 711 Adams St. (at Ontario Street) in downtown Toledo beginning at 9 a.m. The children, who were previously in the custody of LCCS, range in age from infants to teens and will become permanent members of area families.

“These children are so fortunate,” said Dean Sparks, LCCS executive director. “They can move forward with their lives knowing that they can count on the comfort and stability of a permanent family. These children will know that they are wanted and can grow up with that important sense of security,” he adds.

In 2007, LCCS facilitated the adoption of 183 children. LCCS adoptions represent approximately half of all adoptions finalized by the Lucas County Probate Court. “Without a doubt, meeting the children and families on Adoption Day is a remarkable experience,” says Lucas County Probate Judge Jack Puffenberger, who will officiate. “These are families who are willing to give of themselves to change a child’s life by giving them a permanent home. It is truly heartwarming.”

In partnership with 30 Lucas County houses of worship, LCCS will, for the first time, celebrate “Adoption Sunday,” Nov. 2. Participating churches will include information about adoption in their worship in an effort to make families more aware of the need for adoptive homes in our area.

“‘Church, family and love’ are three words that are intrinsically connected,” says Marjorie Holt, Ph.D., Minority Affairs and Inclusion Coordinator for Lucas County Children Services. “What better place than in the church to spread the word that children in our community need their love and to be part of a family?”

LCCS is currently seeking permanent adoptive homes for about three dozen children. The greatest need is for families willing to adopt teens or groups of brothers and sisters. Any adult, single or married, can adopt provided they complete a background check, training and a home study. Adoptive families can work outside the home, and need not own their home to qualify. They also receive financial support based on the adoptive child(ren)’s needs.

To learn more about adopting a child through LCCS, call 419-213-3336 or visit www.lucaskids.net.

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