This November, children’s aid societies across Ontario, including Highland Shores Children’s Aid,
are recognizing Adoption Awareness Month—a time to highlight the importance of permanency
and lifelong connections for children and youth in care.
While the goal is always to keep children with their families and communities, adoption remains
a vital option when reunification isn’t possible. Every child deserves a safe, loving, and
permanent home whether through kinship, customary care, legal custody, or adoption.
“Adoption is one of many paths to permanency,” says Suzanne Anquetil, Director of Services at
Highland Shores Children’s Aid. “It’s about creating lasting relationships and a sense of
belonging for children and youth.”
Key messages for 2025:
• Permanency matters: Children thrive when they have stable, lifelong connections.
• Diverse families needed: We’re seeking adoptive families who reflect the cultural,
religious, and identity needs of children and youth.
• Older youth, sibling groups, and children with complex needs continue to wait for families
ready to support them.
The number of children available for adoption has declined in recent years, reflecting a shift
toward supporting families to stay together. However, the need for adoptive families, especially
for children with unique needs, remains urgent.
Let’s work together to ensure every child and youth in Ontario has the opportunity to grow up
feeling safe, supported, and connected.
If you are interested in learning if adoption is right for you, please visit the Central Adoption
Intake Service via the Adoption Council of Ontario website, www.adoption.on.ca.
(PAUL MARTIN)
