Mayor, city to recognize adoption month

Thousands and thousands of children have found love and contentment in adoptive homes.

It is in that spirit that Harrisburg Mayor Dale Fowler will sign a proclamation supporting this life-changing initiative and encourage individuals to open their hearts and homes to children in need.

"Thanks to thousands of adoptive parents across Illinois, 15,451 children have found their forever families over the last decade, including 1,838 children in the last year," said DCFS Acting Director George H. Sheldon. "But our work is not done. Today nearly 1,500 Illinois children of all ages, backgrounds and abilities are waiting for the love, nurturing and sense of security that can only come from being a part of a family."

The proclamation is on the agenda for the next City Council meeting at 6 p.m., Thursday at City Hall in Harrisburg.

Each year the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services participates in National Adoption Month events to raise awareness of the more than 100,000 U.S. children in foster care who are waiting for safe, loving and permanent families.

Those interested in making a difference in the life of a child can call Vivian Robinson at 618-244-8438. The Illinois Center for Adoption and Permanency, a nonprofit partner of Children and Family Services, maintains an online listing with pictures and descriptions of children in need of a loving family. More information is available on the web at illinoiscap.org.

"DCFS receives, investigates and acts upon a report of child abuse or neglect every five minutes.," department officials said. "Tens of thousands of children are safer thanks to those who call our Child Abuse hotline."

The hotline number is 1-800-25-ABUSE (252-2873)

"Working together, we can ensure a safe, loving home and brighter future for every child," DCFS said.