Connecticut celebrated Adoption Day today with 73 children being adopted in courthouses across the state by 57 families.
Of the 73 children children adopted, 16 pairs are siblings.
Adoption Day is part of a partnership between the Department of Children and Families and the Juvenile Courts.
NBC Connecticut got the chance to watch three deserving families officially come together to finalize the adoption process.
Diedre and Saaul Vachier is from Allentown, Pennsylvania – and it’s been a long road to get to adoption day.
“For us it’s been a hard journey we tried in Vitro for 14 years and we lost two beautiful kids and we gained two beautiful kids,” said Saaul in tears before the judge and a full courtroom filled with family members and DCF workers. Now, the couple has adopted 5-year-old Jaziah and 4-year-old Jaylah, who are both siblings.
Patrick Pierre and Monica Lou of Hamden tell NBC Connecticut the process of adopting has been overwhelming, but it’s been well worth it.
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"We’re so excited that it’s here and we can go home as a family and not have to worry about any court proceedings or anything like that anymore," said Patrick.
"Yes, it’s over. The family is now complete," said Monica.
Their birth-son, Alexander, said he is excited for the adoption of his new little brother and sister, Zoey and Wes. The family plans on buying a larger home soon to fit the whole family.
It was a happily ever for siblings 3-year-old Jude and 2-year-old Airella, as well. They were adopted by Jeff and Jennifer Johnson of Boynton Beach, Florida.
"They’re our kids they mean everything to us," said Jennifer Johnson.
Adoption Day is designed to raise awareness and draw attention the rewards and joys of adopting a child. Every year, 400 to 500 children are adopted out of the Connecticut foster care system.
