Social Worker Hemlata Momaya Honored with Woman of Distinction Award from SoCal State Assemblyman

Hemlata Momaya, Indian American founder of the Bal Jagat adoption agency in Long Beach, Calif. (photo provided)

India-West Staff Reporter

Indian American social worker Hemlata Momaya was recently awarded the 2020 Woman of Distinction award by California state Assemblyman Patrick O’Donnell’s office (District 70, Long Beach).

Though she received this recognition last year, the ceremony was delayed due to Covid. The ceremony was finally held via Zoom March 20.

In 1983, Momaya founded her inter-country adoption agency known as Bal Jagat—Children’s World Inc. – a non-profit California licensed adoption agency in Long Beach.

“She has helped thousands of orphan children from all around the world to have the loving families they deserve. She has brought so much joy to singles and couples to make their dream of having a family come true,” said a press release, adding that her work has helped people of diverse backgrounds and sexual orientation.

Momaya, it said, meets with each family personally to explore and understand their needs, and gives support and compassion throughout their adoption process.

Momaya is also the recipient of the 2016 Angels in Adoption Award by the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute.

In 2008, Momaya was recognized by KCET for her contributions to the Asian community.