National Adoption Month in November every year brings celebrations, articles and heartwarming photos of beaming children.
It is difficult, though, to capture the sheer joy of children who find their “no matter what” families. Children who now know where they’ll spend Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, their birthday, and who will show up for parent-teacher conferences and be there for much-needed hugs.
“It is our privilege to witness the birth of these new families and the creation of a new future for vulnerable children and youth,” said Fr. Robert N. Smith, dean, president and CEO of Saint Francis Ministries.
Understanding the importance of adoption in changing lives, Aetna Better Health Kansas has granted $10,000 to Saint Francis Ministries.
“We’re grateful organizations like Aetna show up for children and families in Kansas,” Smith said. “Their $10,000 grant will be used to create special memories for Adoption Day activities and, more importantly, to support families throughout the adoption process.”
Offering support was an easy decision for Aetna.
“We are honored to serve as the first major sponsor of St. Francis Adoption Day efforts across Kansas,” said David Livingston, CEO, Aetna Better Health of Kansas at Aetna, a CVS Health Company. “Adoption is a priority topic throughout the year, but is especially timely during the holiday season, which is meant to be celebrated together with loved ones. Our goal is to help educate potential parents about the process and connect these individuals with local children waiting to meet their forever family.”
Saint Francis Adoption Day activities include special gifts for families, crafts and activities at Adoption Day events and tickets to local family activities. In Wichita, families can go to Exploration Place; in Salina, the Rolling Hills Zoo; and in Hays, the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.
Specific numbers change as adoption events approach. As of mid-November, more than 75 adoptions will be finalized at Saint Francis Ministries events.
- Saint Francis Ministries’ Adoption Day events will be held:
- Nov. 15, Hays, Kansas – Ellis City District Courthouse, 107 W. 12th St.
- Nov. 22, Salina, Kansas – Saline County District Court, 300 W. Ash
- Nov. 23, Wichita, Kansas – Sedgwick County Juvenile Court House, 1900 E. Morris
