Florence County Celebrates New Forever Families
Florence County, S.C. witnessed a heartwarming event on Monday at the Florence County Judicial Center, where 19 children found their forever homes after their adoption hearings were finalized. As November unfolds, many families are reminded that it is National Adoption Month, highlighting the need for loving homes for kids in the foster care system. According to officials, there are currently 140 children in South Carolina legally free for adoption, with many of them eagerly waiting for a permanent family structure to embrace them.
The Need for Forever Families
The South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS) reports that nearly 100 of these children fall in the age group of 10 to 17 years. This age bracket sees fewer families willing to adopt, and as a result, many young people linger in foster care. What’s more, without that nurturing family connection, some may age out of the system without the critical support they need.
To bring further attention to this urgent need, the SCDSS works closely with community partners to place children into homes that best suit their unique requirements. This year’s national campaign theme, “Youth Voices: Why Family Matters,” serves as a rallying cry to secure safe and stable family connections, particularly for older youth and teens.
Voices from the Heart
Michael Leach, the DSS State Director, emphasizes how important it is for children to grow up feeling safe, loved, and protected. “Every child deserves that chance,” he affirms. “We genuinely want to change the statistics and ensure that youth can secure the stable connections they need.”
In a show of support for this noble cause, South Carolina’s Governor, Henry McMaster, officially declared November as Adoption Month in the state and specifically acknowledged November 25 as Adoption Day. On this special day, Chief Justice Donald W. Beatty has made arrangements for day-long hearings to finalize adoptions across four judicial circuits, bringing together families in Florence, Anderson, Charleston, Horry, and Sumter Counties.
A Call to Action
Governor McMaster said firmly, “There are currently 140 young people in foster care in South Carolina who need permanent families. A loving home can make all the difference to a child’s future.” He continues to urge residents to consider whether adoption could be a viable option for them. “Our state is abundant with caring, and compassionate people who want the very best for their neighbors,” he added.
It’s important to remember that adoption can be a sizable commitment, but it’s also “an even greater gift that has blessed so many children and families in our state,” according to Leach. “Imagine the joy that an older youth can add to your life and the difference you could make in theirs.”
Happy Endings at Adoption Hearings
One inspiring story comes from Eboni Wheeler, who recently adopted a one-year-old girl. “I’ve always wanted to adopt. There was a need, and it was immediate. I have four children already, and adding one more just means more love in the house,” she shared with a smile.
Judge FitzLee H. McEachin, who presided over the adoption hearings, expressed his happiness at seeing families come together. “It’s a joyous day, where everyone leaves happy. We get this opportunity to bring families together and place children where they otherwise might not have had a chance,” he said with a beam of pride.
Taking Steps Towards Adoption
For families considering adoption, the SCDSS has streamlined the process significantly. There are easy steps to navigate towards becoming a forever family:
- Interested families can view online profiles of South Carolina’s waiting children at SCDSS Adoptions, the SC Heart Gallery, and AdoptUSKids.
- An efficient response system now ensures families receive updates within three days of making an initial inquiry.
- Families already approved to adopt are matched with children within two weeks.
- Final selection from potential matches is completed in 30 days.
For those eager to make a difference in a child’s life and learn more about waiting children, resources are readily available and just a click away.
As November rolls on, let’s keep the conversation going and remember, every child deserves a chance at a loving family!
