E.J. is a bright-eyed, curious child born in 2002 who loves to be outside and explore his surroundings. E.J. enjoys walking around different places to see the things around him. When he gets tired of walking, E.J. is content to be pushed in a stroller so he can see the sights and still enjoy the outdoors.

When he is not outside enjoying nature, E.J. often will watch TV. He especially loves SpongeBob SquarePants cartoons. E.J. has a variety of toys that he loves to play with. His favorites are ones that make noise or play music. E.J. loves to be around others.

E.J. has been diagnosed with autism and is nonverbal. He can communicate his needs through a communication board and is learning some basic sign language. The best family for E.J. would have some knowledge of autism. E.J. is now in a home with a small dog, and he is doing well with the pet.

Adoption subsidy may be available to the most appropriate family.

E.J. is among more than 130 children in the care of the state Department of Health and Human Services seeking an adoptive family. Based in Gardiner, A Family for ME is a nonprofit program that works in collaboration with DHHS to find foster and adoptive families for Maine children in care.

For information about children available for adoption, contact A Family for ME toll free at 877-505-0545 or visit www.AFamilyForMe.org and see the gallery of photographs of some of the many children awaiting a “forever family.”