Lackawanna County Hosts Heartwarming Adoption Day, Expanding Families and Creating New Beginnings
On Monday, the Chenoweth family joined other families in celebrating new beginnings at Lackawanna County’s Annual Adoption Day. Clad in matching shirts emblazoned with a rainbow and the phrase, “It’s a beautiful day to complete a family,” the Lehighton-based family formally expanded their household, welcoming their adopted son, Amari, age two, into their lives.
The event showcased the joy of adoption, highlighting ten children and eight families who were united in celebration. Gathering alongside families were staff members from the county’s Office of Youth and Family Services, as well as community supporters, all to commemorate this significant milestone in the lives of many.
“We have always wanted more children,” Jordan Chenoweth expressed, cradling Amari. “His coming into our lives was literally like a blessing.” The Chenoweth family has been fostering Amari since he was just 13 months old. With Jordan, her husband Conrad, their 10-year-old daughter, and their six-year-old foster son, the family sought to grow after struggling with the notion of having more biological children.
Jordan reflected on the experience, saying, “There are so many children who need loving homes. It was such a blessing. He was really the perfect fit. I couldn’t imagine life without him. He’s amazing, he’s funny. He’s definitely the heart of the family. We are so honored to have the opportunity to adopt him.”
A Festive Atmosphere for New Family Foundations
The atmosphere at the event was further enhanced by the presence of Youth and Family Services employees, who donned costumes representing famous adopted characters ranging from Buddy the Elf to Superman. This unique touch created an engaging atmosphere, offering a playful contrast to the serious nature of adoption proceedings, which often involve challenging circumstances.
“It’s a happy day in Lackawanna Court,” said Lisa Sohara, the supervisor of adoption and foster care. “This is a celebration of family, because not everyone gets to stay in their existing family. Some people have to create their own families, and we take pride in making that happen.”
In total, five judges presided over the adoption proceedings, punctuated by moments of joy and affection. Judge Margaret Moyle, tasked with overseeing the adoption of two children by their grandparents, recognized the challenges of opening one’s home to children after raising one’s own family. She offered commendations, emphasizing the love and support that were evident throughout the day.
“Opening your hearts and homes once again is not an easy task,” she acknowledged. “But you were here for them.” During the ceremony, Moyle presented children with plaques bearing the poignant inscription, “I didn’t give you the gift of life … life gave me the gift of you.”
Families that day exited the courthouse through a red carpet, embodying the new relationships established within the community. Megan Galgoci, patiently waiting to adopt her nephew Alek, stated, “This is like the happiness at the end of the trail for us, to keep him in the family, secure his future. Alek has brought a joy to our family.”
Lackawanna County’s Annual Adoption Day serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of love and community, illustrating how new beginnings can emerge from adversity and the ongoing need for supportive homes for children.
