Top Five Adoption-Friendly Workplaces All Put High Value on Family

The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption has continually been impressed by the caliber of companies that have applied for recognition as an Adoption Friendly Workplace. This year was no different.

In its 10th year, the list has a new number one company. Ferring Pharmaceuticals, based in New Jersey, offers employees up to $25,000 in financial assistance for adoption and 5.5 weeks of leave.

“We feel strongly that we should assist individuals realize their dream of having a family whether it occurs biologically or through adoption,” said company representative Karen Gehring.

Rounding out the top five are: Citizens Bank, $23,460.00  and 1 week paid leave; Abbott, $20,000 and 2 weeks paid leave; Hanes Brand, $20,000 and 2 weeks paid leave; and Barilla America, Inc., $16,000.00 and 2 weeks paid leave.

 “At Barilla we consistently challenge ourselves to continuously improve in everything we do.  It shows that the company cares for the present and future wellbeing of our employees and their family,” said V.P. Human Resources-Barilla Americas Laura Birk.

All of the top five companies are long standing supporters of adoption benefits and hold family as a chief value.

“We place a strong emphasis on employee health, wellness and work/life balance, and we are very proud to offer our employees this benefit to help them navigate the joyful, but sometimes complex process of adopting a child," said Hanes Brand V.P. of Human Resources Annamarie D'Souza.

This year The Wendy’s Company was given Forever Family status. This is a permanent emeritus position on the list that celebrates their unparalleled commitment to adoption and adoption benefits. Wendy’s offers employees up to $30,000 in financial assistance and six weeks of paid time off.

Thank you to all the companies that applied and to see the complete list, visit adoptionfriendlyworkplace.org.