Cardin Nominates Upper Marlboro Couple for Congressional Award

Ellis and Bess Calland not only raised their five biological children in Upper Marlboro, but they also then provided foster care and adopted six special needs children.

That's why Sen. Ben Cardin recently nominated the Callands for a congressional Angels in Adoption award.

“The Callands selflessly took it upon themselves bring six special needs children into their home and hearts,” Cardin said. “Adoption is a real gift that can provide a child with a stable, loving family and the Callands did it six times. The Callands are an inspiration to all of us and what they have done shows that a family does not have to be biological -- it just has to be built on love and support."

The Angels in Adoption held their gala on Wednesday, Sept. 12.