TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — Some children in our area are beginning new lives, with new parents and families.
November 18th marks National Adoption Day.
Tallahassee is now home to seven more families, all of them able to finalize their adoptions Monday at the Leon County Courthouse.
This is the Haskins family. Keith Haskins shared how special this day is for him and for all of the new families.
"It's amazing actually... just knowing there's a lot of folks out there doing the same thing we are doing today," said Haskins. "There's kids going to a happier home... or get to actually have a Mom and Dad for the first time in their lives."
Another new parent is Taurean Archie. Archie and his wife adopted three children, hoping to make a difference and to keep them from going through what he did.
"For me it was they need a home. That was the only mindset. I grew up without a father and... I understand the impact it has," said Archie. "I grew up with a lot of friends who came out of foster care... came out of bad situations and if I can be one person that can make one difference, I think that matters."
For these new families, the plan going forward is clear.
"Well now we can be a nice, big happy family... it's something we've never had yet... something new to experience and we're looking forward to it," said Haskins.
"Be the best Dad I can be, man. Be the most memorable Dad. Be the most active Dad. Be the most present Dad," Archie explained. "Whatever they need, I'm there for them."
The Regional Executive Director for Children's Home Society in the Big Bend also shared her thoughts on this special day and what it means to her.
"It is so very special as my husband and I are adoptive parents ourselves..." said Cecka Rose Green. "We know exactly how these families feel to know that their children are one hundred percent theirs and they get the highs and the lows... the ups and the downs... but most importantly the love that comes through adoption."
Green also says that although these children are not biologically-connected with their new parents, she believes that they will always be connected by the heart.
The seven new families, help contribute to a record number of adoptions this year, for the state of Florida. If you're interesting in adopting or helping other foster children find new homes, click here.
