Youth Villages is using National Adoption Month to urge more West Tennessee families to open their homes to children waiting for a permanent place to belong.
November highlights both the children still seeking adoptive homes and the families who have already taken that step. Youth Villages said more than 400 children across Tennessee currently need an adoptive home.
The organization partners with the Tennessee Department of Children's Services to help find lasting placements. Leaders stressed that families are not left alone once they start the process.
Jamonica Farmer, Youth Villages assistant director, said each child is assigned a foster care specialist and that support is available around the clock. Ongoing training is also part of the package.
Farmer told WBBJ that families do not have to be perfect parents or have a perfect home. Patience, consistency and a willingness to give a child a chance matter most, she said.
Training for people interested in fostering or adopting is free through Youth Villages. The program requires eight weeks of preparation, mostly delivered virtually for convenience.
Home studies are still required so staff can confirm a safe and stable setting for a child. Farmer said that step is about making sure the basics are in place before a placement moves forward.
Youth Villages also hosts virtual information sessions several times a month for people who want to learn more before committing.
Local advocates said National Adoption Month is a chance for Jackson-area residents to take a first look at the process and ask questions without pressure.
Sources: WBBJ; Youth Villages