Each November, we observe National Adoption Month—a time to honor adoptive families, recognize the resilience of Idaho’s children in foster care, and reaffirm our commitment to finding every child a safe, loving, and permanent home.

Since stepping into my role as director, I have witnessed firsthand the life-changing impact that adoption has on children and families. Every adoption file I sign represents a deeply personal story—one shaped by loss, care, perseverance, and hope. These stories stay with me. They remind me why our work matters and why every child deserves the stability and support that only a permanent family can provide.

In Idaho, when reunification with a child’s parents is not possible, the court may terminate parental rights, and the child becomes available for adoption. Adoption is one of the most important paths to permanency, and for many children in foster care, it marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with belonging, opportunity, and a sense of home.

As a department, we are innovating child welfare in Idaho. Our efforts focus on strengthening families early, preventing children from entering foster care, supporting and expanding our network of foster and adoptive parents, and building partnerships that keep children safe and connected. Adoption remains an essential part of this work—especially for children and teens who, through no fault of their own, cannot return to their families of origin.

Idaho continues to need adoptive families for Idaho’s older youth. Teens in foster care often wait the longest for permanent homes, yet they are remarkable young people with so much to offer. Adoption for older youth can mean having someone to celebrate milestones with, a place to come home to on holidays, and a family that walks with them into adulthood. Those relationships often make all the difference.

National Adoption Month is also an opportunity for all Idahoans to take part. Whether by adopting, fostering, mentoring, volunteering, or simply sharing information, every contribution helps create stronger communities and brighter futures.

To Idaho’s adoptive families: thank you. Your dedication, compassion, and love change lives. You demonstrate every day what it means to show up, stand by a child, and give them a place to belong.

And to those who are considering becoming foster or adoptive parents, I encourage you to learn more. Idaho needs families who are willing to open their hearts and homes. Our team is here to guide you, answer questions, and support you every step of the way.

Every child deserves a family to call their own—and together, we can help make that a reality.

Learn More

• Adoption through foster care: https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/services-programs/children-families/child-and-family-services-and-foster-care/about-adoption
• Private adoption information: https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/services-programs/children-families/child-and-family-services-and-foster-care/private-adoption
• Adoption and guardianship assistance: https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/services-programs/children-families-older-adults/child-and-family-services-and-foster-care/adoption

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.