November 26, 2024: Adoption Day

WHEREAS, approximately 10,000 children in Michigan live away from their families in foster care and, every year, an estimated 2,000 children in foster care have the goal of adoption and are legally ready to be adopted; and,

WHEREAS, during fiscal year 2024, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and contracted private adoption agency partners provided permanency for approximately 1,500 children through adoption; and,

WHEREAS, Adoption Day in Michigan was established by the Michigan Supreme Court and MDHHS in 2003; and,

WHEREAS, on November 26, 2024, many Michigan courts will celebrate Adoption Day by finalizing adoptions, holding special events for adoptive families, and providing educational materials for citizens regarding the adoption process;

THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim November 26, 2024, as Adoption Day in Michigan.