(Editorial - Graphic Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

Forget for a moment about those who hope to score political points by showing off their deep concern for the wellbeing of babies and children, most West Virginians are truly concerned with ensuring ALL Mountain State kids are happy, healthy and safe. We just don’t always know what we can do to make it happen.

In the case of the 6,008 children in state custody of West Virginia, there are options such as providing a foster home or adoption. During this national Adoption Awareness Month, the West Virginia Department of Human Services Bureau for Social Services is recognizing not only the contributions of those who choose to become adoptive families, but also emphasizing advocacy for children and youth still waiting for a forever family.

“This observance highlights the profound impact adoptive families have on the lives of children and underscores the critical need for permanent, loving homes for youth in foster care,” said Kim Ricketts, DoHS special consultant to the secretary for the Bureau for Social Services. “Together with local adoption agencies and community partners, DoHS is committed to expanding adoption awareness and ensuring ongoing support for families throughout their adoption journey.”

Of the more than 6,000 kids in state custody, only 1,200 are in the adoption process. The need is great. West Virginia Kids Thrive Collaborative and Mission West Virginia provide support, information and resources for foster parents, adoptive parents and kinship caregivers.

It takes willingness and wherewithal, but a foster or adoptive family is not alone.

If you want to make a difference and believe you have what it takes to be what these children need, go to wefosterwv.org to find out more. It won’t be easy — doing right by kids never is — but we need them. And they need you.