Critique of adoption is out of touch with reality

RE "THE problem with saving the world's 'orphans' " (Op-ed, Dec. 11): E.J. Graff promotes her negative point of view regarding international adoptions without taking into account the reality of life for millions of children around the world who live without a family or home, clean water, medical care, or an opportunity for education.

I have traveled to orphanages in more than 20 countries and seen the enormous needs that exist for children who have no parents to care for them. Graff should know that US agencies put enormous efforts into programs abroad for disadvantaged families as well as the work that goes into the successful adoptive placement of thousands of older children and those with special medical needs. She does a great disservice to so many underprivileged children as well as the ethical agencies involved in the work of helping children all over the world have a better future.

Vicki Peterson
Executive director of external affairs
Wide Horizons for Children
Waltham