Department of Public Welfare Recognizes National Adoption Month, Highlights Children Waiting for Permanent Families

HARRISBURG, Pa., Nov. 17, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Recognizing November's observance of National Adoption Month, Secretary of Public Welfare Gary D. Alexander today reminded Pennsylvanians that there are 1,000 children living in foster care who are in need of an adoptive family.

"Every child deserves to have a safe, loving, and permanent family," said Alexander. "Since the early 1990's, more than 30,000 children have found their permanent home, but a thousand more children are still waiting."

The Statewide Adoption and Permanency Network, or SWAN, operated by the Department of Public Welfare's Office of Children Youth and Families, helps match children with potential families. SWAN collaborates with agencies, judges, and the legal community and offers resources to families that are interested in adoption.

All prospective parents are required to complete a family profile process which includes an application, screenings and background checks.  Prospective parents participate in training and meetings with agency workers. Once the family profile is complete, social workers begin the matching process.

"Children in foster care have hopes and dreams, and every child deserves to have a loving and nurturing permanent home," said Alexander. "I encourage anyone who has room in their heart to open their doors and consider adoption."  

To learn more about children awaiting adoption in Pennsylvania, visit the SWAN website at www.adoptpakids.org to read short bios and see photos of the waiting children. Or, search for and "Like" SWAN on Facebook to get daily updates about adoption and foster care. The SWAN Helpline number is 1-800-585-SWAN.

Visit the Department of Public Welfare online at www.dpw.state.pa.us.

Media contacts: Anne Bale or Carey Miller, 717-425-7606

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare