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File #: 19-799    Version: 1 Name: National Adoption Month
Type: Resolution-Presentation Status: Presentation
In control: Health and Social Services
On agenda: 11/5/2019 Final action: 11/5/2019
Title: Adopt and present a resolution proclaiming the month of November 2019 as National Adoption Month in Solano County (Supervisor Brown)
District: All
Attachments: 1. A - Resolution, 2. Adopted Resolution, 3. Minute Order

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Adopt and present a resolution proclaiming the month of November 2019 as National Adoption Month in Solano County (Supervisor Brown)

 

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Published Notice Required?     Yes ____ No __X_  

Public Hearing Required?         Yes ____ No __X_

 

DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:

 

The Department of Health and Social Services (H&SS) recommends the Board adopt and present a resolution recognizing the month of November 2019 as National Adoption Month in Solano County. 

 

SUMMARY/ DISCUSSION:

 

November is “National Adoption Month” and Solano County has a long tradition of formally recognizing and appreciating the adoptive families who provide permanency to our children in need, and the social workers who make and support these lifelong connections.  The Solano County Adoption Month resolution helps increase awareness about adoption in Solano County and inspire the community toward excellence in achieving permanency for youth.  The national theme for 2019 is "Youth Voices: Why Family Matters." 

 

Teenagers are less likely to be adopted and are much more likely to age out of foster care without strong or stable family support. Securing lifelong connections for teens in foster care, both legally and emotionally, is a critical component in determining their future achievements, health, and well-being.

 

Solano County Child Welfare Services recently completed a comprehensive restructuring that combined Adoptions, Permanent Planning and Non-Minor Dependents under one section referred to as “Transition to Permanency” that develop mutual supports with intentional focus on permanency.  Adoption is one area where children who are unable to return to their biological families, can provide this permanency. 

 

In Solano County, there are 397 children in out-of-home foster care placement, of which 125 children have been referred for adoption services. Thirty-one (31) children have been adopted during this program year and it is anticipated that there will be an increase in future years as Child Welfare works to nurture and strengthen permanency efforts. Every child and teenager in America, including those in Solano County, deserves a permanent loving family and a home in which each child can develop to his or her fullest potential.

 

Child Welfare Services continuously recruits for adoptive families in order to meet the need for permanent homes and expedite placement for children into permanent homes. Formally recognizing November as National Adoption Month in Solano County provides an opportunity to acknowledge adoptive families and all the dedicated professionals in Solano who work diligently to help children and youth find permanent, stable and loving homes.

 

FINANCIAL IMPACT:

 

There is no financial impact to the County General Fund. Staff time preparing this Board Item is nominal and included in the department’s FY2019/20 Adopted Budget.

 

ALTERNATIVES:

 

The Board may choose not to adopt the resolution. This is not recommended because National Adoption Month provides an opportunity to celebrate with adoptive parents who open their homes and hearts to children in need, and to recognize County staff and other professionals who assist children in finding permanent homes.

 

OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:

 

None.

 

CAO RECOMMENDATION:

 

APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION