Videos Launch Adoption Awareness Month

Families, social workers and health-care professionals are the stars of a new online video series about adoption. The 12-part project was launched today, Nov. 2, as part of Adoption Awareness Month in Nova Scotia.

The video is a compilation of interviews that tell the story of the adoption process. The story is told by families talking about their experiences, concerns, challenges and ultimately rewards in adopting a child in need.

"Recruiting loving supportive families for children in need is a big part of our job," said Denise Peterson-Rafuse, Minister of Community Services. "These videos provide interested individuals and families with personal accounts about the adoption process, the support available and the rewards of becoming an adoptive parent."

The video series includes topics such as the adoption of African Nova Scotian and First Nation children, as well as adopting children with special needs and disabilities. Viewers can choose to watch the entire video or select an area of particular interest.

"Families were getting overwhelmed with brochures, booklets and forms," said Janet Nearing, manager of adoption. "A family can sit together and watch these videos and get a very real and personal understanding of the process."

Last year, 121 children were adopted by Nova Scotia families, but there are still many more waiting for a permanent home. Today, most children waiting to be adopted are school-age and, through no fault of their own, have had difficult life experiences.

"Every child deserves to grow up in a loving and stable home and it is heartbreaking to think that some children are waiting for a permanent home," said Ms. Peterson-Rafuse. "I encourage all Nova Scotians to consider adopting a child, and if you have any questions, go online and watch the videos."

To view the adoption videos, visit the Department of Community Services website at www.gov.ns.ca/coms . Interested people can call the adoption information line at 1-866-259-7780.