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Over 100 youth, ranging in age from 10 ½ months to 14 years old, were adopted into their forever homes on November 13 during the Children and Family Services (CFS) 24th Annual Adoption Finalization Event.
In partnership with the Superior Court of California and the San Bernardino County Juvenile Court, 70 families celebrated the finalization of their adoptions at the Ontario Convention Center. This year’s theme, “Making Campfire Memories with Forever Families,” captured the warmth and lasting bonds formed on this special day. CFS provided various activities for the families such as face painting, balloon animals, treasure hunts, and a resource fair while they waited for their courtroom time to finalize their adoptions.
This year’s celebration featured heartwarming remarks from Assemblyman Tom Lackey, The Honorable Judge Rodney Cortez, the Honorable Judge Lynn M. Poncin, San Bernardino County Fourth District Supervisor Curt Hagman, San Bernardino County Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr., San Bernardino County Chief Executive Officer Luther Snoke, Assistant Executive Officer Diane Rundles and CFS Director Jeany Zepeda. Each congratulated the families on this joyful day and emphasized the significance of creating stable, loving homes for youth.
“Today, we celebrate children finding permanency and leaving foster care to join their forever families. This event also honors the village that made this possible, reminding us that no family is alone on this journey. Behind every child and family is a community of dedicated individuals who have played a vital role in supporting them”, Zepeda said.
The Annual Adoption Finalization Event reflects CFS’s commitment to permanency for children when reunification with their biological families is no longer possible. It’s a powerful reminder of the critical work being done to give every child the opportunity to grow up in a safe, nurturing home. For families interested in learning more about adoption, please visit Adoptions – Children and Family Services or contact San Bernardino County Adoption Services at 1-800- 722-4477.
