DRAFT_December Newsletter 12.21.20

Moreno Valley family celebrates holidays with old and new traditions

Jolleen Newby has many gifts to celebrate. The Moreno Valley mom finalized her fourth adoption in Riverside County this year. Christmas celebrations around her busy household will be extra special this season despite the pandemic, Newby says. Her girls are between the ages of 2 and 5. Keeping the energetic sisters engaged and creative during a time of social isolation has been a challenge, but Newby says sharing holiday traditions and starting new traditions has helped the family kindle the yuletide spirit and strengthen their bonds. “Love and being together are what’s important,” she says. “We’ve been visiting neighborhoods and homes decorated with Christmas lights. The girls have Santa hats, stockings by the fireplace and, for the first time, we’re building a gingerbread house; something I never did as a kid.” The Newbys are among nearly 300 families who finalized their adoptions this year in Riverside County. Charity Douglas, assistant director of Children’s Services, said dozens of children in Riverside County are waiting for a permanent, safe, and loving homes year-round. “Every child deserves a home to be supported, a home to be nurtured and a home to be inspired, a place to reach their maximum potential,” said Douglas. “Adoption is a gift to parents and children.”

DEC20 | JAN21

Newby’s path to adoption began years ago – inspired by her time working with foster children and opening her home to a relative’s friend who was in need. “You’re changing lives through adoption and the experience changes you for the better,” Newby said. “Becoming a mom through adoption gave me a great sense of purpose in life.” Newby said the holidays are a good time to reflect on the needs of children and families in communities, and to respond with acts of love and kindness. “The Christmas spirit is what we need right now,” she said. “We’re ending this year on a good note – at home with our family.”

The Newby family celebrating the Christmas season in their Santa hats. (Left to right) Zoey, Zinnia, Jolleen, Zury and Zion.

Meet Riverside County children waiting for permanent loving homes at: http://www.heartgalleryriverside.org For information about Riverside County adoptions please visit: www.rivcodpss.org

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