FOX5 Vegas - KVVUFoster parents recognized in formal adoption proceedings

Foster parents recognized in formal adoption proceedings

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LAS VEGAS (FOX5) -

Dozens of local families are celebrating the gift of a lifetime as the adoptions of 47 children to loving homes were granted at Family Court. The adoptions were finalized as part of the Department of Family Service's Adoption Day event. Nearly 30 families were honored and awarded full physical and legal custody of foster children of all ages.

Adoptive mom Donna Smith was overjoyed to hear the judge proclaim her son Charlie her own. She and her husband Patrick had recently become licensed foster parents when they received their little boy when he was a newborn.

"We are thrilled today. Charlie came to live with us when he was 4-months old and he's almost 3 now," said Donna. "He has been a part of our family for a long time and we are very, very happy for him to be a part of our family."

Some of the children who were adopted Thursday came from the same families and were adopted with their siblings.

The Department of Family Services and the Family Court system actively seeks those who are willing to take children of all ages, as well as children with one or more siblings. Family District Court Judge Frank Sullivan said, "We really expect the community to step up and give every child the loving home that they deserve."

For more information on becoming a foster parent or an adoptive foster parent, contact the Clark County Department of Family Services at 702-455-7414.

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