In courthouses across Central Florida on Friday, 30 children were officially united with their new parents during adoption ceremonies in Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties. Ranging in age from infants to teens, the children were among nearly 4,500 kids who participated in National Adoption Day celebrations taking place across the country this month. Eighteen children were adopted in Orange County.
“This is a day to celebrate as kids with bad pasts get bright futures,” said Glen Casel, CEO and president of Community Based Care of Central Florida, the lead agency overseeing foster care and adoption services locally. “As we enter the holiday season, these children and parents will experience the blessing of family in an even more meaningful way.”
Community Based Care of Central Florida is hoping to raise awareness of the number of children needing permanent, loving homes. In the tri-county area, over 60 are available for adoption – among more than 100,000 nationally.
“These are good kids longing for a family to bring them stability, safety and love,” said Casel. “The need is great, but the benefits of opening your home are even greater.”
Florida First Lady Ann Scott, who attended the ceremony in Osceola County, was among the dignitaries and community leaders who lent their support to the cause.
“As an adoptive father myself, National Adoption Day has always been close to my heart,” said Judge Robert M. Evans, who presided over the ceremony in Orange County. “If you want to see a judge cry, this is the time. There’s nothing more powerful than witnessing the creation of a new family.”
To learn more about foster parenting or adoption, prospective families should visit www.cbccfl.org.
