Rockland County is marking its 13th year of collaboration with local Wendy’s restaurants to raise awareness for National Adoption Month and highlight the need for foster families. County Executive Ed Day and Commissioner of Social Services Joan Silvestri announced that on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, staff from the Rockland County Department of Social Services’ (DSS) Children’s Services Unit will join Wendy’s locations in Nanuet and West Haverstraw to honor foster and adoptive families.
Wendy’s Legacy in Adoption Advocacy
Wendy’s founder, Dave Thomas, who was adopted as an infant, was a lifelong advocate for adoption. In 1992, he founded the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, grounded in his belief that every child deserves a safe, loving, and permanent family. In celebration of his legacy, Wendy’s in Nanuet and West Haverstraw will provide free meals to foster and adoptive families in Rockland County on November 20.
Local Wendy’s operators Kevin Woodside and Phillip Anastos, through Wenesco Restaurants, continue to honor Thomas’ mission by partnering with the Rockland County DSS to increase awareness about the critical need for foster families.
A Celebration of Success
Over the past 13 years, the partnership between Rockland County and Wendy’s has helped emphasize the importance of foster care. During this time, 88 children in Rockland County have been adopted by their foster families.
“We are grateful to Wendy’s for partnering with us for the 13th consecutive year to raise awareness of the need for caring and loving foster homes,” said Joan Silvestri, Commissioner of the Department of Social Services. “This event also recognizes the tireless efforts and compassion of our adoptive and foster care parents.”
How You Can Help
Community members interested in learning more about becoming a foster parent are encouraged to visit Wendy’s in Nanuet or West Haverstraw on November 20, 2024, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Representatives from Rockland County DSS will be on hand to provide information and answer questions.
“Fostering a child is a truly special opportunity to change a young person’s life,” said County Executive Ed Day. “I urge anyone who has ever thought of being a foster parent to get more information about what a truly special gift it would be for both you and the child.”
For more details on how to become a foster parent, visit www.fosterrockland.com.