News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The following statement was issued today by Social Development Minister Bruce Fitch to highlight November as Adoption Awareness Month:

We celebrate National Adoption Awareness Month for several reasons, including to thank the many families who have adopted a child or children, and to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the staff working to find our children loving, permanent, families. I also take this opportunity to recognize the work of the New Brunswick Adoption Foundation in promoting and raising awareness on the importance of adoption. You are all crucial members of the child welfare system.

This month is also an important occasion to remember that there are many children in New Brunswick who are still waiting to be adopted. There is an ongoing need for permanent, nurturing and supportive families to open their homes and their hearts to these children.

Adoption provides a legal means for a family to permanently take on the responsibility of caring for and raising a child. But adoption is much more than a legal process. Adopting a child is a lifelong commitment, and we in government are grateful to the many families who have taken it on. By adopting a child, you are inviting a new member into your fold. More importantly, you are offering a child the chance to have a family of their own.

Families come in all shapes and sizes. It is not their make-up, but the ability of family members to nurture, love and support each other, that make families the ideal place for children to be raised.

To those who have opened their hearts and homes to adopt a child, I commend you. To those who are considering adoption, I encourage you to contact your local Social Development office.