Dozens of children and youth will be adopted in ceremonies across Washington Nov. 21-23 as the state joins the nation to celebrate Adoption Day.
Every year, the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) joins the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) in celebrating Adoption Day to raise awareness around the continued need for adoptive families.
Gov. Jay Inslee proclaimed Nov. 23, as Adoption Day in Washington to acknowledge the critical and significant commitment individuals make when they welcome a child or youth into their family.
At least 15 courts across the state plan celebrations, many of which will include finalizing adoptions. These events are open to the public for those who want to celebrate and take part. To find out if your county is celebrating, visit the list of events at Washington State Courts - National Adoption Day.
“We are so grateful for the families who are willing to open their hearts and homes for the children and youth in our care — when that placement becomes permanent, it’s really special,” said Ross Hunter, Secretary for DCYF. “Thank you also to the DCYF staff who work hard to create compatible placements, without them this would not be possible.”
Some of the extra special ceremonies this year, include three siblings being adopted together and a child that has found his forever home after spending nearly three years in foster care.
Since Jan. 1, 2024, more than 550 children and youth have been adopted in Washington state. Currently, more than 800 children in the Washington foster care system are legally free to be adopted into new families.
Washington’s statewide celebration is sponsored by the Washington Supreme Court Commission on Children in Foster Care, a joint commission of the Supreme Court and DCYF, supported by the AOC.
To learn more about adopting in Washington State and resources available to adoptive families, visit https://dcyf.wa.gov/services/adoption.