West Virginia Department of Human Services Celebrates National Adoption Month
The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), Bureau for Social Services (BSS), is celebrating November as National Adoption Month with the theme “Be the Missing Piece.” The theme emphasizes the power of connection, like a puzzle, every child deserves a complete picture of family, belonging, and support. Many children in foster care are still waiting for that final “piece” that brings love, stability, and permanency into their lives.
During State Fiscal Year 2025, West Virginia completed 1,101 adoptions, helping children find the stability and support they need to thrive. As of September 2025, approximately 5,959 children were in foster care placement, with 702 legally free for adoption and in various stages of the process, underscoring the continued need for committed foster and adoptive families.
“Every child deserves a loving home where they can grow, succeed, and feel valued,” said Alex Mayer, Cabinet Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Human Services. “As someone whose own life was shaped by adoption, I know firsthand the difference a family can make. National Adoption Month is not just a time to celebrate—it’s a reminder that love, stability, and belonging can transform a child’s entire future. Together, we can truly be the missing piece in a child’s life.”
DoHS also provides ongoing support for foster parents, adoptive parents, and kinship caregivers through initiatives like the West Virginia Kids Thrive Collaborative, which offers parenting tips, important dates, and tools to strengthen family bonds and support youth success. Additionally, mental and behavioral health services are available to all West Virginia children. For parenting support, crisis counseling, and local resources, visit help4wv.com.
“Adoption transforms lives—for children, families, and communities,” said Lorie Bragg, DoHS Bureau for Social Services Commissioner. “By supporting foster and adoptive parents, providing resources, and connecting communities, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive in a loving home.”
To participate in National Adoption Month, visit the DoHS Social Media Toolkit to help raise awareness and share stories of adoption throughout November.
Those interested in becoming a foster or adoptive parent can learn more at wefosterwv.org.
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