New York – Every year, through the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute’s Angels in Adoption program, members of Congress honor an individual, family or organization from their district that has made a difference in the lives of children in need of a family. Congressman Michael McMahon of Staten Island, New York has nominated Merle Ellis as his Angel in Adoption this year.
“We are grateful to Congressman McMahon for honoring Ms. Ellis, a foster and adoptive mother who has worked tirelessly with The Children’s Aid Society to help provide a safe and loving home to children in crisis,” said Richard Buery, President and CEO of The Children’s Aid Society.
Ms. Ellis has been a foster and adoptive parent since 1999. She has adopted eight youngsters over the years, and fostered many young people, finding exceptional ways to provide compassionate care to children and helping them return home or move to adoptive placements.
The Children’s Aid Society finds homes for more than 500 children each year in our foster care program, which includes such specialized services as family foster care, medical foster care, therapeutic foster care and services for teens aging out of foster care.
Ms. Ellis, her daughter Susan and her Children’s Aid Society caseworker Will Gillespie will travel to Washington, DC October 5–6 for two days of advocacy training, networking events and a gala. “It has been an amazing experience to work with Ms. Ellis and witness her dedication to these children,” said Will Gillespie. “It’s especially touching to see the loyalty and love that she inspires in her children.”
About The Children’s Aid Society
The Children’s Aid Society is an independent, not-for-profit organization established to serve the children of New York City. Our mission is to provide comprehensive support for children in need, from birth to young adulthood, and for their families, to fill the gaps between what children have and what they need to thrive. Founded in 1853, Children’s Aid is one of the nation’s largest and most innovative non-sectarian agencies, serving New York’s neediest children. Services are provided in community schools, neighborhood centers, health clinics and camps. For additional information, please call 212-949-4938, email ellenl@childrensaidsociety.org, or visit www.childrensaidsociety.org.
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