Viral adoption story highlights importance of forever homes

On December 5, Kent County’s Facebook page shared a photo from 5-year-old Michael’s adoption hearing. And on social media, they say, everyone’s hearts grew three sizes that day.

Michael had brought his entire kindergarten class to his adoption finalization hearing! He wanted to share the joy he felt about joining his forever family with all of his friends. Dressed in a vest and red bow-tie, the smiling kindergartner embodied the life-changing feeling of belonging that a child gains when they are adopted.

Twenty years ago, a National Adoption Day was designated in November to draw attention to the more than 125,000 children across America waiting to be adopted. To date, more than 75,000 children have been adopted as part of National Adoption Day events.

Michael’s adoption hearing is just a small glimpse into the meaningful difference that finding a forever home can make in the life of a child. With approximately 14,000 children in the care of the Arizona Department of Child Safety, Southwest Human Development is always looking for prospective foster and adoptive parents who can meet the needs of children who have experienced abuse or neglect.

If you are interested in learning more about foster care and adoption, check out the requirements and fill out the initial online interest form here.



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