WASHINGTON,
November 17, 2010
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Rep. Scott Garrett (R-NJ) delivered a speech today on the House floor to recognize November as National Adoption Month and commemorate the 11th anniversary of National Adoption Day on November 20, 2010. Garrett recognized Shea and George Campbell of Waldwick, New Jersey who have welcomed over 121 foster children into their home over the past 30 years and have adopted several children into their family. National Adoption Day is a collective national effort to raise awareness of the 123,000 children in foster care who are waiting to find safe and loving families through adoption.
Complete text of Garrett’s floor statement below:
“Every year an average of one hundred and fifteen thousand American children live in foster care, waiting to be adopted. Today, I am pleased to honor November as National Adoption Month and November 20th as National Adoption Day.
“In particular, I would like to recognize Voices for Adoption for its efforts to support adoption. Since 1996, this organization has not only helped recruit adoptive families but also has supported programs that assist families who have already adopted.
“For example, Voices for Adoption sponsors a program called the Adoptive Family Portrait Project. Through this project, Members of Congress celebrate a family from their district that exemplifies the values of adoption.
“This year, I am pleased to recognize the Campbell family from Waldwick, New Jersey. Shea and George have welcomed over 121 foster children into their home over the past 30 years. In addition, they have adopted several children.
“Shea also works for Children’s Aid and Family Services as a specialist in helping special needs children who have been exposed to drugs. In the past, she served on the child placement review board.
“The Campbells remain in contact with many of the children who have come into their home as foster children. They also mentor new foster parents and advise those who are considering becoming foster parents for the first time.
“During this month, I am proud to highlight the numerous ways the Campbells have contributed to promoting adoption in northern New Jersey. Adoption changes far more than one life; it changes a community.”
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