Title
Vote to adopt a resolution recognizing November as Adoption Awareness month
Abstract
Introduction & Background: Adoption is a legal process that also provides social and emotional connection between children and adoptive parents, when reunification with their biological parents is not possible, and adoptive parents. (Child Welfare Information Gateway, 2026).
Discussion & Analysis: Adoption provides permanency for children who are no longer able to return to their biological parents. Eighteen children in Chatham County achieved permanency through adoption during fiscal year 2026. NCDHHS and the Department of Social Services provides additional support to families who adopt children with identified special needs, older children, or children adopted as part of sibling groups. Supports include financial support, funding to supplement post-secondary education expenses for eligible youth and ongoing access to post adoption support services through DSS and other private contracted agencies.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan: This item supports the Chatham County Comprehensive Plan's goals of promoting community well-being, supporting strong and healthy families, and ensuring residents have access to essential human services. Increasing awareness of adoption and recognizing the importance of permanency for children contributes to a more resilient and supportive community while advancing positive outcomes for children and families in Chatham County.
Budgetary Impact: No budgetary impact.
Recommendation/Motion: Vote to adopt a resolution recognizing November as Adoption Awareness month.