Hackettstown Family Wins Statewide Award for Foster Care Advocacy

For the Perez family of Hackettstown, the children always come first -- even if they're not their own.

The Foster and Adoptive Family Services and the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency announced Friday that it's recognized Tracy and Enio Perez as its 2014 Outstanding Kinship Family of the Year Award.

The award is presented to families creating awareness of the foster system, who exhibit commitment to child care, create a positive impact on the foster, adoptive and kinship system, and participate in recruitment and community outreach.

The Perez family currently provide care for their niece and nephew and respite care for a sibling group.

FAFS described the family as demonstrating fairness, kindness and enthusiasm to children in their home and providing an "uplifting and encouraging environment."

“Celebrating 40 years of award winning service and acknowledging the dedication of so many families and staff alike is a true inspiration and a testament to the heart of our mission," FAFS CEO Mary Jane Awrachow said.