Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg today announced that New York City's annual adoption celebration, "NYC Adopt: Finding Families for Children," will be held Saturday, October 5, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Central Park's East Meadow. Hosted by Administration for Children's Services (ACS) Commissioner William C. Bell, the event will raise awareness about adoption and offer New Yorkers the chance to learn more about the process of adoption in New York City. Commissioner Bell will be joined by Molly Price, star of "Third Watch" and a New York City native, and Victoria Rowell, actress from "The Young and the Restless" and former foster child and founder of the Rowell Foster Children's Positive Plan.

"Today, thousands of New York City's foster children cannot return to their biological families," said Mayor Bloomberg. "Most of these children currently live with pre-adoptive parents, yet 800 of these children are waiting for adoptive parents to open their hearts and homes to them - permanently. If you or someone you know has ever considered adoption, then NYC Adopt is the perfect opportunity to learn about the adoption process. I encourage you to come to Central Park tomorrow to learn about what a rewarding experience opening your home to a child can be."

Since its formation in 1996 as New York City's first agency solely dedicated to ensuring the safety and well being of all children, ACS has made adoption a top priority. Through NYC Adopt and its other ongoing adoption initiatives, ACS reaches out to New Yorkers about opening their homes to a child. Each year, ACS finds adoptive homes for more than 3,000 children - more than double the number of adoptions completed a decade ago. So far this year, ACS has finalized adoptions for nearly 1,500 children and through its contract agencies across the City, 24,000 children have been adopted since 1996.

"NYC Adopt offers prospective adoptive parents the opportunity to learn the facts from adoption professionals on hand from 45 agencies throughout the City," said Commissioner Bell. "For example, adoptive parents do not have to be married or earn a certain income; they can be gay or straight; there are no fees and financial assistance is available after the adoption process is complete. Attendees can also learn about the kinds of children who are available for adoption. Ranging in age between two and 19 years old, the average age is 12 years old. But no matter the age, each and every child deserves a loving home that offers them the support and stability they need and deserve."

In addition to orientation sessions and a speaking program featuring actors Victoria Rowell and Molly Price, NYC Adopt will also offer fun activities for the entire family. All are welcome to enjoy the Girls Choir of Harlem, face painting, air castles, a petting zoo and snacks and beverages generously donated by event sponsors.

NYC Adopt 2002 is dedicated to the memory of Dave Thomas, founder of Wendy's and The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. As an adoptee, Thomas' lifelong mission was to help the more than 150,000 children in child welfare systems across America find permanent, loving homes. He was a champion and great supporter of New York City's adoption campaign for the past decade.

For more information about adopting or fostering a NYC child, please call the ACS Parent Recruitment Hotline at (212) 676-WISH (9474). Outside of New York State, call toll-free at (877) 676-WISH (9474). Or log onto the ACS website at www.nyc.gov/adopt.