kcentv.com - KCEN HD - Waco, Temple, and KilleenFoster parent shortage leaves kids in holiday lurch

Over 6,000 children in Texas are facing a challenge that some say only those who have experienced it can understand. 

According to the Department of Family and Protective Services, 6,148 children in Texas foster care were legally available for adoption as of September 30, 2011.  Each child is facing the possibility of going through the holiday season without a permanent home.

November is National Adoption Awareness Month.  Its creators say it spotlights children waiting for families.  The annual "Why not Me" campaign is part of National Adoption Awareness Month.  It focuses on the thousands of children in state care, particularly older and minority children who desperately need loving families they can call their own.

Throughout November, mass adoptions, match parties, and other events are held to put the spotlight on the plight of children waiting for permanent homes and normal lives.  Many events occur around National Adoption Day on the 19th of November.