Hundreds of Oklahoma Children Wait for a Family

Gov. Henry Proclaims November Adoption Awareness Month
OKLAHOMA CAPITOL --- In fiscal year 2005, Oklahoma’s Swift Adoptions Program placed 1,151 children in quality adoptive homes. This marks the seventh consecutive year where more than 1,000 adopted children were placed. OKDHS Swift Adoptions also received a federal high performance bonus of $130,000 from the U.S. Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families.

But even with this sustained success, there are still more than 1,100 children in state custody with the goal of adoption. About 12 percent of all children waiting to be adopted are between the ages of 13 and 18, many have grown up in state custody, waiting for the day when they will finally have an adoptive family to call their own.

Without an adopted family, these children will age out of the system, and with the bang of a gavel, they will be emancipated from the foster care system on their 18th birthday. While other teens are planning for college, these children face being legally placed out in the world to live and survive on their own.

To help raise awareness about the number of teens who have recently come into care, or spent their childhoods in foster care, OKDHS’ Swift Adoption Program would like to introduce Oklahomans to eight children who hope for loving adoptive families to call their own.

Meet Cassie, an energetic 16-year-old with a good sense of humor. Cassie is organized and assertive. She enjoys listening to music, watching TV and reading. Cassie wants to be part of a permanent family and needs a family that is patient and has realistic expectations.

Meet Tiffany, a sweet 13-year-old who has overcome great difficulties. Tiffany is a caring, nurturing girl who loves animals. She thrives on encouragement and attention and has made great strides academically. Tiffany needs a loving family who can encourage her and help her grow into a happy, healthy adult.

Meet Dustin, an energetic 13-year-old who loves playing video games and basketball. Dustin has made tremendous progress with learning challenges and dealing with his past. He needs a family who will offer him lots of love.

Meet Christine, an engaging and likeable 18-year-old. Christine enjoys movies, books and writing. She’s fun to be around and would make a great addition to a patient family.

Meet David, a charming, intelligent and outgoing 17-year-old. David enjoys life and loves helping others. He enjoys playing guitar and is active in his school’s drama class. David has strong values and hopes to become a youth minister. David is hoping for a family of his own.

Meet Kevin, an energetic 14-year-old. Kevin loves basketball and dreams of someday playing in the NBA. Kevin enjoys weight lifting, sports, playing games on the Internet and singing in the church choir. He also likes to travel and enjoys experiencing different places. Kevin would like a two-parent home, preferably in California so he can see the L.A. Lakers regularly.

Meet Telitha, a wonderful 15-year-old with a beautiful smile. Telitha is creative and enjoys her school’s art class. She also enjoys dancing, swimming and shopping. Telitha is a survivor who really wants a family of her own.

Meet James, an active, outgoing 15-year-old. James likes to swim and play baseball, basketball and golf. James takes pride in his appearance. He would love to have a family to call his own, as well as a scooter to replace his bike.

If you or someone you know would like more information about adoption, please call 1-877-OK-SWIFT (1-877-657-9438), or click on www.adoptuskids.org.

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