The Georgia Division of Family and Children Services is celebrating National Adoption Month by building awareness of the need for adoptive parents for over 300 children across the state. There is a particular need for “forever families” for teenagers.

Each week during National Adoption Month, DFCS will highlight a teen or sibling group that is looking for a family in the hopes that not only will they find an adoptive family, but that it will also lead to the adoption of other children in foster care. DFCS believes that all children have a right to a family and a safe home of their own. This week’s highlight will focus on a teenager.

Sixteen-year-old LaToya is a personable teen, full of energy and excitement. She enjoys talking with people and making new friends. Like your typical teen, she loves talking on the phone, shopping, going to the movies and roller skating. In school, LaToya is a hard-worker who strives to excel in all subjects. She hopes to find a “forever family” to help guide her as she moves into adulthood and believes that her dynamic personality will bring joy and love to her adoptive parents.

“Teenagers like LaToya have dreams and aspirations,” said DFCS Director Bobby Cagle. “Without the support and guidance of a family, many of the teens in our care can lose hope. During November’s National Adoption Month, we encourage Georgians to remember that teenagers need the stability of a family now more than ever before, and to consider opening their minds, hearts and homes to a teen.”