In recognition of Adoption Month, Suffolk AME had the privilege of meeting with some of our members from the Family Services Unit who work tirelessly in Foster Care and Adoption throughout Suffolk County. Our conversation, led by Suffolk AME Executive Vice President Annette Mahoney-Cross, centered on the critical importance of their work, the challenges they face daily, and the profound impact they have on the lives of children and families in our community.

Suffolk AME was joined by the following members: Brian Kennedy, Adoption Unit Casework Supervisor; Ashley Lawrence, Resource Development Casework Supervisor; Dawn Lazarus, CPB Administrator; Jeanette Gettling, Assistant Bureau Director – CPB; Janet Tamurino, Assistant Bureau Director – CPB; and Tracey Minella, Public Relations Assistant at DSS.

Every day, these members and their colleagues carry out an essential and often underappreciated role. At the heart of their mission is the protection of Suffolk County’s most vulnerable population—our children. Those working in Foster Care and Adoption undertake the complex responsibilities of evaluating whether children require foster care, placing them in appropriate and caring homes, and tirelessly working toward family reunification when possible. When reunification is not feasible, they guide children toward adoption, seeking forever homes filled with love and stability. Their work extends beyond the children and foster families; it includes supporting families struggling with issues such as substance use, abuse, and neglect, addressing the root causes to enable healthier outcomes.

During our discussion, several common challenges emerged. Our members highlighted the urgent need for increased staffing to meet the growing demand, as well as a call for greater understanding and practical support from State and Federal oversight agencies that regulate their work. A particularly pressing concern is the shortage of foster families willing and able to care for older children, tweens, teens, and children with special needs or medical fragility. These groups represent a majority of those needing placement, creating a gap that strains the system. While such cases may initially be more complex and demanding, our members emphasized the incredible rewards that come with dedication—transforming a child’s life through consistency, care, and long-term commitment.

Beyond the operational challenges, there remains a widespread lack of public awareness about the nature and importance of the work done by our Foster Care and Adoption professionals. To bridge this gap, members actively participate in community events across Suffolk County, engaging directly with neighbors to educate and encourage involvement, whether through fostering or community support.

Our members also face risks that many may not fully appreciate. Frequently, they enter tense and potentially dangerous situations where concerns about abuse, neglect, or substance use are present. Performing site visits alone and unarmed, these professionals rely on their training in de-escalation and their ability to build rapport to ensure safety for themselves as well as the children and families involved.

Despite the many challenges, including sometimes overwhelming stress and occasional threats to personal safety, our members shared stories of hope and success. These heartwarming experiences of positively changing a child’s or family’s life are the fuel that sustains them. They bravely confront and address some of the most harrowing traumas a child can endure, providing healing, hope, and stability to Suffolk County’s children. For this courageous, compassionate service, we owe every Family and Children Services member our deepest gratitude.

Suffolk AME is proud and profoundly honored to count these dedicated professionals among our ranks. As we continue to advocate for necessary improvements in staffing levels, salaries, and working conditions, it is conversations like these that remind us of the vital importance of their work and strengthen our resolve to support them.

We extend our sincere thanks to the members who took the time to meet with us last week and express our heartfelt appreciation to every Suffolk AME member who serves in Foster Care and Adoption roles across Suffolk County. Your commitment changes lives and builds stronger communities.

‍

► Are you interested in becoming a foster parent?

Many children in Suffolk County—especially older children, tweens, teens, and those with special needs—are in urgent need of supportive, loving homes. While all children needing foster care deserve a chance, these groups represent a significant portion of those waiting for placement.

If you have a passion for parenting and are willing to open your home, time, and heart, we encourage you to get started by filling out the Inquiry Form or contacting Family and Children Services at 631-853-KIDS (5437).

Foster parents receive extensive training and financial reimbursement to help cover the costs of caring for a child. Beyond this support, fostering brings numerous personal rewards: the fulfillment of making a meaningful difference, helping children build confidence and resilience, the pride of doing important work, the opportunity to form new relationships, and the chance to impact a child’s life profoundly.