November 09, 2001

In recognition of the positive efforts of all families who have adopted children in Manitoba, Family Services and Housing Minister Tim Sale today proclaimed Nov. 12 to 18 Adoption Awareness Week.

"I would like to commend all Manitobans who have welcomed a child permanently into a home where there will be understanding and acceptance," Sale said.

"All children need a home and there are many children, of various ages and from diverse backgrounds who still need an adoptive family. I hope Adoption Awareness Week will help convince more Manitobans to reach out to children who need a home."

Winnipeg Child and Family Services recently started a new service that offers followup counselling and information for families with adopted children that is suited to their new needs.

In addition to Winnipeg Child and Family Services agencies, there are 14 Child and Family Services agencies throughout Manitoba that provide services to children, birth families and adoptive parents, including assistance with reunions and the post-adoption registry.

There are also two licensed agencies that provide adoption services. Adoptions Options is a non-profit organization that arranges private adoptions and provides services for children, birth families and adoptive parents. Canadian Advocates for African Children focuses on inter-country adoptions and has established working relationships in many countries that have children who need adoptive families.

A public information meeting and workshop, organized by Adoption Options and the South Winnipeg Family Information Centre, will be held in Winnipeg Nov. 22. The session, called "Silent Stories", will feature birth parents sharing their stories and experiences.

Other adoption-related services are provided by the Post Adoption Registry of the Department of Family Services and Housing, including services to Child and Family Services and licensed agencies. There are no fees for services at the Post Adoption Registry.

Families seeking more information on adoptions in Manitoba should contact their local Child and Family Services agency, Adoptions Options or Canadian Advocates for African Children.

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