DPSS Annual Report 24_25 FLIP v16_compressed

Children’s Services Division

Families Celebrate New Beginnings on National Adoption Day Dozens of families and children gathered at the Riverside Historic Court House to celebrate November’s National Adop tion Day as part of this year’s Nation al Adoption Month. The ceremonies marked a milestone of permanency and love for 68 Riverside County children and the families who welcomed them home in formal court proceedings. ing ensure each child experienced safe ty, connection and a sense of belonging. For Jennifer Langer-Italia and her part ner, finalizing the adoption of two young brothers was a moment of joy and affir mation. “While their life journey began with challenges, we’ve been able to give them the love and home they deserve,” she said. Adoption changes the trajectory of a child’s life. It

cluding the Riverside County Superior Court, the Sheriff’s Department, Faith in Motion, Second District Supervisor Karen Spiegel, the Adoption Day Com mittee and child welfare staff. Their col laboration provided legal support, family services and steady encouragement throughout the adoption process, help also positively transforms the lives of those who choose to step forward. — Assistant Director Bridgette Hernandez, Children’s Services Division

“Every child deserves a family that sees their potential and stands with them as they grow. When individuals and families permanently open their homes to chil dren and youth, they are offering stabili ty, belonging and the chance for a young person to imagine a future filled with possibility,” Hernandez said. “Adoption changes the trajectory of a child’s life. It also positively transforms the lives of those who choose to step forward.” The celebration was supported by com munity and faith-based partners, in

Riverside County Superior Court Judge Charles J. Koosed, who presided over many of the day’s adoptions, said the ceremonies also served as a call to ac tion. “Certainly, our hope is the idea that there might be some folks who are think ing about adopting, that they will see the wonderful time these families are having and they make that all- important deci sion to adopt as well.” For more information about fostering or adopting, call 1-800-665-KIDS .

A total of 370 Riverside County children and youth were adopted in Fiscal Year 2024/25.

Riverside County Department of Public Social Services | Annual Report 2024 - 2025

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