UMFS Highlights Need for Adoption, Support During National Adoption Month

With November designated as National Adoption Month, UMFS (United Methodist Family Services) is shining a spotlight on the critical need for adoptive families for youth in Virginia’s foster care system. Across the state, over 5,300 children are in foster care, with nearly 1,700 still waiting for a permanent home. Of these, a significant number are teenagers, who often face longer waits to be adopted than younger children.

The consequences of aging out of foster care without a permanent family can be severe. “Young people who transition into adulthood from foster care without a stable home are at a higher risk of experiencing homelessness, unemployment, and incarceration,” explained UMFS President & CEO Nancy Toscano, Ph.D., LCSW. “Nationally, Virginia ranks near the bottom in achieving permanency for youth at risk of aging out of the system. We are determined to change that.”

Supporting Adoptive Families for Success

UMFS emphasizes that finding adoptive families for teens and supporting them through the process is essential. Toscano noted, “All children deserve to grow up in a stable, loving home that will help them transition into adulthood and set them up for success.” To make adoption more sustainable for families, UMFS offers comprehensive support through the Regional Post Adoption Consortium Services (RPACS), funded by the Virginia Department of Social Services.

RPACS provides free post-adoption services that include case management, education and training, peer support, crisis intervention, and even planned respite activities. These resources ensure that adoptive families have the guidance they need, and children can thrive in their new environments.

Real Stories, Real Support

For adoptive parents like Diamond Fenner from Suffolk, the support from UMFS has been life-changing. Fenner, who has adopted five children, emphasized the impact of having a reliable resource. “Anytime I’ve had questions, UMFS has been there to support me,” she said. Particularly during challenging times like the holidays, UMFS has provided comfort and joy through fun activities like arts and crafts nights. Fenner added that the support groups UMFS offers have also connected her to a valuable community of other adoptive families.

How You Can Help

For those not ready to adopt, there are still ways to support the adoption community. People can volunteer for respite services, help with meal trains, or contribute to organizations like UMFS. Even small acts of support can make a big difference in the lives of adoptive families and the children they welcome into their homes.

To learn more about UMFS adoption services or to sign up for an information session about becoming a foster-to-adopt family, visit umfs.org.