HAMDEN – According to an Aug. 16 press release from Congressman Marc Molinaro Delaware Opportunities (DO) Inc., Hamden, was awarded the 2024 Angels in Adoption Award for New York’s 19th Congressional District. DO provides comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to children from low-income families in Delaware County.
In June, they opened the first Child Advocacy Center in Delaware County.
In an interview following the press release, DO Executive Director Shelly Bartow said she believes the organization received the award for their work with children and families overall, but mainly in recognition of bringing the first physical Child Advocacy Center to Delaware County. The child advocacy center provides support to victims of sexual or physical abuse or neglect.
Operation of the center has gone well since its opening in June, Bartow said, with several families receiving services. During an Aug. 19 Department of Social Services committee meeting, Acting Social Services Commissioner Keith Weaver said eight children were interviewed at the center in July, for a year-to-date total of 43 children.
Delaware Opportunities is honored to receive the Angels in Adoption Award, Bartow said in the press release.
The Angels in Adoption recognition celebrates individuals and organizations who contribute to the development and wellbeing of children and youth in their communities. Angel Award winners are invited to Washington to celebrate and meet with their member of Congress, participate in roundtable discussions with peers from across the county, and receive advocacy training.
The award is not monetary, Bartow said.
Of the award, Molinaro said, “Delaware Opportunities has been serving our community for years and I was honored to select them for the Angels in Adoption Award. Their vital services ensure no child is ever left behind.”
