Letters to the Editor
Editor: As we gather with friends and family this Thanksgiving week, I ask you to remember the children of our county. November is designated as National Adoption Month and we at the Columbiana County Department of Job and Family Services would like to draw your attention to the children of our community. While reflecting this week on the things we are thankful for, I’d venture to say that family tops the list of blessings. But sadly, many children are waiting and wishing for families to call their own. These children are seeking a place where they belong, and feel loved and secure. Children waiting for families are not unlike other children you may know. They have hopes and dreams and interests. But without the support of a loving family, the odds of realizing their full potential decreases. Love and support from a family helps to shape a child’s future. Adoption has a lifelong positive effect. In my research, I have found that teens waiting for families actually fantasize about helping mom with the dishes or pitching in to do family chores. They long for a family dinner together and dream of waking up at a place called “home.” These children crave stability and parents they can count on. Waiting children are holding onto hope that someone will reach out and extend a place in their home, but more importantly, a place in their heart. At CCDJFS we are not looking for people to extend pity, we are seeking “action takers”! We are searching for those who comprehend the blessing that they can offer to a waiting child. I encourage you to take the first step on this journey by calling (330) 424-7781 EXT 3134. In the words of Dave Thomas, Wendy’s founder, “A child is waiting.” Christy L. Gibas Foster/adoptive parent recruiter East Liverpool