On the recordNovember 27, 2018
As cochair of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth, I rise to recognize November as National Adoption Month. All children deserve the love and security of a forever family. Unfortunately, this is not a reality for too many children across the country. More than 123,000 children are waiting right now to be adopted from foster care in the United States. Those who reach adulthood and exit care without a family are far more likely to experience bouts of homelessness and unemployment, among other negative outcomes. Madam Speaker, who among us would have succeeded without the love and support of our families to be there for us, whether it was the family we were born into or the family we make. Madam Speaker, we must ensure that every child has the family they need to thrive. Adoption provides this pathway. On November 17, 19 Rhode Island families celebrated National Adoption Day by finalizing the adoptions of 23 children. I would like to honor these families and others who open their hearts to children in need. There is no greater gift than the gift of a forever home. ____________________
