LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Families gathered at Lubbock Impact Friday morning to celebrate one of life’s most meaningful milestones, the legal finalization of adoptions that create permanent homes for children.
The National Adoption Day ceremony, organized by Saint Francis Ministries with the theme “O-fish-ally Adopted,” brought together families who have opened their hearts and homes to children in need of stability and love.
Jessica Hoskins, Director of Permanency and Reunification at Saint Francis Ministries, says the event emphasizes the comprehensive support these children will receive.
“We do want everyone to walk away today knowing that they are loved. That not just a mom or dad but a full support system, someone who’s going to wrap around them forever,” Hoskins said. “When we say forever families that means no matter what, person who’s going to be there and support you the whole time.”
Among the families was Dell Oliver and his stepdaughter Mackenzie. Dell has been part of Mackenzie’s life since she was four years old, and after losing her mother Summer earlier this year, the adoption held special significance.
“It was pretty emotional, especially because we wish Summer was here, my wife and her mom but it was also a happy day because we know she’s looking down on us and smiling,” Dell said.
The Jackson family celebrated 13-year-old Ashlyn officially becoming part of their household, completing what they describe as their family puzzle.
“She’s very special. I would say she’s definitely the last piece to the puzzle,” Morgen Jackson said. “She just brings laughter and smiles, she’s goofy, a goofball and we love that for her. She’s so precious, a great big sister. We love her.”
Ashley Watkins finalized the adoption of two young girls she has cared for, for more than two years. The energetic children kept everyone entertained during the ceremony, playing on stage and tugging at their mother’s dress.
“It was really stressful at first, I was kind of uncertain if I wanted to take any more children or not my kids are already grown about to be out the house, but they were definitely something I was missing and have 100% made my life better,” Watkins said.
While Friday’s ceremony celebrated successful placements, the need for adoptive families continues. According to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, 3,830 children statewide are legally free for adoption, including 254 in the Amarillo-Lubbock area.
Last year, more than 3,200 Texas children were adopted from state care, with 211 adoptions occurring in the Amarillo-Lubbock region.
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