LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Families gathered at Lubbock Impact Friday morning to celebrate one of life\u2019s most meaningful milestones, the legal finalization of adoptions that create permanent homes for children.<\/p>\n
The National Adoption Day ceremony, organized by Saint Francis Ministries with the theme \u201cO-fish-ally Adopted,\u201d brought together families who have opened their hearts and homes to children in need of stability and love.<\/p>\n
Jessica Hoskins, Director of Permanency and Reunification at Saint Francis Ministries, says the event emphasizes the comprehensive support these children will receive.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe 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\u2019s going to wrap around them forever,\u201d Hoskins said. \u201cWhen we say forever families that means no matter what, person who\u2019s going to be there and support you the whole time.\u201d<\/p>\n
Among the families was Dell Oliver and his stepdaughter Mackenzie. Dell has been part of Mackenzie\u2019s life since she was four years old, and after losing her mother Summer earlier this year, the adoption held special significance.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt 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\u2019s looking down on us and smiling,\u201d Dell said.<\/p>\n
The Jackson family celebrated 13-year-old Ashlyn officially becoming part of their household, completing what they describe as their family puzzle.<\/p>\n
\u201cShe\u2019s very special. I would say she\u2019s definitely the last piece to the puzzle,\u201d Morgen Jackson said. \u201cShe just brings laughter and smiles, she\u2019s goofy, a goofball and we love that for her. She\u2019s so precious, a great big sister. We love her.\u201d<\/p>\n
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\u2019s dress.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt 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,\u201d Watkins said.<\/p>\n
While Friday\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
Last year, more than 3,200 Texas children were adopted from state care, with 211 adoptions occurring in the Amarillo-Lubbock region.<\/p>\n
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