Steuben County Celebrates Adoption Awareness Month

Family poses with a judge in a courtroom, likely celebrating an adoption in the Finger Lakes area.
Judge Chauncey Watches with Newly Adopted Families (photo: provided)

Steuben County came together in a celebration this month to honor November as Adoption Awareness Month, a time to recognize the families who have opened their hearts and homes to children in need of forever families. Families gathered in the Steuben County courts where Honorable Judge Chauncey Watches officiated the adoptions in his chambers, marking a momentous occasion in the lives of children and their families.

In a speech, Steuben County Commissioner of Social Services Kathryn Muller shared, “I have had the honor of serving with you all as Commissioner over the past 24 years. Together, we have celebrated 368 adoptions. Today is a testament to you and to the extraordinary power of love, compassion, and the unbreakable bonds that tie families together.”

Muller also shared that by year’s end, Steuben County will have completed 10 adoptions, continuing the legacy of building families through the work of those in the foster care and adoption community.

Also, Kelly Fitzpatrick, Chair of the Steuben County Legislature, who made a proclamation declaring November” Adoption Awareness Month” stated,“The choice to open your hearts and your homes is the shining example of how we should live.”

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