Celebrate caregivers and forever families

This November, we will join thousands across the country in celebrating two important observances: National Adoption Month and National Family Caregivers Month. These observances provide an opportunity to celebrate the tireless efforts of caregivers and to raise up the voices of young people who are looking for forever families.

National Family Caregivers Month is a time to recognize and honor family caregivers across the country. During November, we highlight issues family caregivers face, celebrate their efforts to care for loved ones, and increase the support of and education for family caregivers. This year’s theme, “Caregiving during Crisis,” addresses the new realities family caregivers face when providing care for their loved ones during these uncertain times. Throughout the month, the Department will provide tips and tools to help families cope with challenges that may arise during emergencies and other sudden changes.

National Adoption Month is a time to find permanent, loving families for children and youth in foster care. The 2020 theme for National Adoption Month is, "Engage Youth: Listen and Learn." During state fiscal year 2020 in Georgia, 22% of children exited foster care through adoption. Children may linger in the foster care system for years, drifting from one placement to another, seeking out the stability of a supportive, loving caregiver. If reunification efforts fail and children cannot safely return to their birth families, they often become available for adoption. This year, during National Adoption Month, the U.S. Children's Bureau urges people to engage youth by listening to their perspectives, understanding their needs and learning from them in order to support their paths to permanency. When we open communication with youth, we can begin to address the barriers to achieving permanency, and we create opportunities to enhance their well-being along the way. 

For more information on Georgia's children in need of caring, forever families, please visit ItsMyTurnNow.dhs.ga.gov or call 1-877-210-KIDS.