WHEREAS, we expect that by the end of 2017 at least 89 families will adopt 124 teens, children and infants in Hennepin County, giving kids and sibling groups the gifts of safety, stability, and forever families to love them for the long haul; and
WHEREAS, November is National Adoption Month, when we make a special effort to thank all of our adoptive families, whose love and kindness makes our community a better place; and
WHEREAS, National Adoption Day, Saturday, November 18, is a collective, national effort to raise awareness of the more than 110,000 children in foster care nationwide who are waiting for permanent and loving families; and
WHEREAS, protecting our most vulnerable residents is a core function of Hennepin County government; and
WHEREAS, our commitment to children’s well-being, including meeting their physical, social, emotional, and relational health needs, and ensuring the growth and development of every child, are vital components of our responsibilities in Hennepin County;