Adoption-A Story Close to My Heart

This a story that is dear to my heart. I am adopted. I have an adopted daughter, and her and her husband adopted twins so this story has special meaning to me.

Governor Mike Parson announced that Southeastern Missouri has achieved a new record for adoptions. Despite the challenges of COVID-19, Missourians in the Southeast region of the state overcame these obstacles to ensure 418 children and youth have a forever family to call their own – an increase of 57 additional adoptions from last year’s numbers.

The region as a whole and seven individual counties – Dunklin, Howell, Iron, New Madrid, Oregon, Phelps, and St. Francis –all set a five-year high for adoptions.

Governor and First Lady Parson said in a joint statement:

"We are very proud of the dedication of the Department of Social Services, foster care case management partners, the courts, and adoptive parents who worked exceptionally hard this past year to ensure 1,740 Missouri children across the state now have a loving and supportive adoptive family,”

November is National Adoption Month, and there are currently 1,579 deserving children and youth in Missouri foster care searching for a forever family.

To become an adoptive parent you must:

• Be at least 21 years of age
• Complete a child abuse/neglect check and criminal record check including fingerprints
• Be in good health, both physically and mentally
• Have a stable income
• Be willing to participate in and complete a free training and assessment process
• Be part of a professional team willing to voice perspectives and concerns
• Be willing to partner with the child's family