Florence County Holds Heartwarming Adoption Hearing Day, Uniting 19 Children with Forever Families

Florence County Celebrates Successful Adoption Hearing Day

In a heartwarming event at the Florence County Judicial Center, 19 children have officially found their forever homes after adoption hearings finalized on a bright Monday morning. This joyous occasion coincides with November, recognized as National Adoption Month, shining a spotlight on the importance of providing loving homes to children and teens in foster care.

Children Awaiting Their Forever Families

Across South Carolina, there are currently around 140 children waiting to be adopted, many of whom are ready to find their loving families. Among them, nearly 100 are older youths aged 10 to 17, who often face challenges in the search for adoptive parents. The S.C. Department of Social Services (SCDSS) is committed to pairing these young individuals with families that understand and can meet their unique needs.

Why National Adoption Month Matters

November is not just a month on the calendar; it’s an opportunity for our community to rally together. This year’s national theme, “Youth Voices: Why Family Matters,” emphasizes the need for safe and stable family connections for older youth and teens. As Michael Leach, the DSS State Director, passionately stated, “Every child deserves the chance to grow up in a home where they feel safe, loved, and protected.”

He added that many families shy away from adopting older youths, leaving them with the risk of aging out of the foster care system without adequate support. “When we help youth secure stable connections, we all benefit when they become independent, productive adults,” Leach continued, giving a warm reminder of the impact love can have on a child’s life.

A Day of Joy and New Beginnings

In recognition of Adoption Month, Governor Henry McMaster declared November as Adoption Month in South Carolina, with November 25th marked as Adoption Day. On this special day, Chief Justice Donald W. Beatty is dedicating time for day-long hearings to finalize adoptions in several judicial circuits, including Florence, Anderson, Charleston, Horry, and Sumter Counties.

During these proceedings, 80 children are set to be adopted by 60 families throughout the state, bringing hope and joy to many. Governor McMaster emphasized the importance of finding loving homes: “A loving home can make all the difference to a child’s future.” He urges everyone to consider the possibility of adoption for their families.

Real Stories, Real Impact

Eboni Wheeler, who recently adopted a one-year-old girl, couldn’t be happier. “I’ve always wanted to adopt. There was a need, and it was immediate, so why not? I have four children; adding one more didn’t make a difference — we simply have more love to give,” Wheeler shared with a smile.

Family Court Judge FitzLee H. McEachin agrees that these adoption days are special. “It’s a time when everybody comes together, filled with happiness. No one leaves unhappy,” he reflected. “We have this opportunity to bring families together, offering children homes they previously hadn’t dreamed of.” Judge McEachin’s enthusiasm for witnessing families united through adoption is both infectious and heartwarming.

How You Can Make a Difference

If you’re interested in becoming a forever family for a young person, SCDSS has streamlined the adoption process. You can view online profiles of South Carolina’s waiting children on platforms like SCDSS Adoptions, the SC Heart Gallery, and AdoptUSKids. Families looking to adopt can expect better communication thanks to a new system that responds within three days of an initial inquiry. Families that are already approved for adoption will know within two weeks if they are being matched with a child, and a final selection will occur within 30 days.

To make a life-changing difference in a child’s life, consider exploring options available through the Department of Social Services. With the right love and support, you could help a child feel truly at home, allowing them to flourish in a nurturing environment.