McConnell Recognizes Kentucky Family as “Angels in Adoption”

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) welcomed the Bilby family of Frankfort, Kentucky, to his office in the U.S. Capitol and congratulated them on being recognized as 2024 Angels in Adoption. Senator McConnell nominated the Bilby family for the honor.

Joe and Lesley Bilby had long considered adoption, and for years, they felt called to help the thousands of children in Kentucky's foster care network in need of forever homes. After years of waiting and wondering if they could handle the challenges of the foster care system, they began the process to be approved as foster parents. In 2019, their lives changed forever when a curious two-year-old boy toddled up their driveway with a Happy Meal in one hand and social workers close behind.

Joe, Lesley, and their daughter, Anne Frances, officially welcomed James into their family two years later. Today, James enjoys soccer, karate, and especially his Happy Meals. The Bilbys hope their adoption story and experience with foster care will encourage more families to open their hearts to the children in need of loving families.

"It was a pleasure to welcome Joe, Lesley, and James Bilby to the Capitol to celebrate their incredible story. I always marvel at the strength of families like the Bilbys, who dedicate themselves to their children and the adoption community," said Senator McConnell. "The Bilbys gave James the greatest gift a child could ask for, and I am honored to have them represent Kentucky in this year's Angels in Adoption program. I wish the Bilby family all the best as they continue to grow together and make Kentucky proud."

"James has been one of our greatest blessings in life, and we are very grateful for our experience with foster care and adoption. Through all the ups and downs, we would never trade this journey with our family for a minute. We are honored to receive this special recognition from Senator McConnell as this year's Angels in Adoption, and we thank him for his strong advocacy for adoption in Kentucky," said Joe and Lesley Bilby.

Angels in Adoption is a public awareness campaign by the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute. Each year, Members of Congress can nominate constituents who are helping to improve the lives of children in need of a loving family.

For Kentucky families who may also need assistance with adoption, please contact the Senator's office in Louisville at (502) 582-6304 or online: https://sen.gov/R4W4

Senator McConnell welcomes the Bilby family to the U.S. Capitol, Washington, D.C. on September 11, 2024

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