FIRST-PERSON: Reclaiming America’s leadership in global child welfare
As our nation prepares for a new administration, it is impossible to ignore the influence these individuals will have not only on domestic policies but also on the world’s perception of America’s heart and values. The mission of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is one area that offers a profound opportunity for leadership and attention. The department's responsibility to protect the well-being of vulnerable children and families goes far beyond its association with public health. HHS must prioritize child protection.
Church planters blessed by Southern Baptists throughout adoption journey
When Jacob and Makenzie Goble settled in their seats at NAMB’s Send Luncheon during the Southern Baptist Convention’s Annual Meeting this past June, they had no idea they were in for an unexpected surprise.
Nov. 10 a special day to focus on widows, orphans
Southern Baptists have set aside Sunday, Nov. 9, to focus on caring for widows and orphans.
Aid Chinese orphans, U.S. families stuck in adoption limbo, ERLC urges Blinken
WASHINGTON (BP) – The Southern Baptist Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC) has urged the U.S. government to intercede for the American families and Chinese orphans caught in limbo by the end of China’s international adoption program.
Shock, anger as China ends adoptions impacting hundreds of U.S. families
BEIJING (BP) – The Chinese government has officially ended its international adoption program, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning announced Sept. 5, ending hopes for hundreds of U.S. families who were matched with children before the COVID-19 pandemic but had adoptions put on hold in 2020.
Vermont pastor and wife denied foster care license over religious beliefs
The Wuotis and Gantts both had their foster care licenses revoked by the state when they expressed they could not compromise on their Christian beliefs, in this case, related to sexuality.
Haitian aid workers worry American Christians donors could worsen crisis
(RNS) — As the security crisis in Haiti continues, the humanitarian aid group Haiti Family Care Network is urging U.S. Christian donors to refrain from worsening the situation by donating to orphanages and to redirect their efforts instead toward initiatives helping parents support their children.
New federal rules threaten Kentucky children’s placement agency
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (KT) – The Biden Administration has finalized new rules that could threaten the ability of Sunrise Children’s Services and other faith-based agencies to place Kentucky children in foster care.
Church leaders in Kenya give qualified support for plan to close orphanages
NAIROBI, Kenya (RNS) – Amid a growing push among child welfare organizations to reunite families rather than keep children in institutional homes, Kenyan authorities are set to adopt a new national program that will phase out traditional orphanages over the next decade.
Difference-maker: football recruit using NIL money to support adoptions
EUHARLEE, Ga. (BP) — It was a hot day in September 2021, and Vanessa McWhorter jostled with a sweaty toddler in the football stands watching her son push other boys around on the field.