DETROIT – Some families have something extra to celebrate this holiday season as adoptions become official.
There were a lot of hugs and happy tears Friday, Nov. 22, at the 3rd Circuit Court in Detroit.
While children are adopted daily, Adoption Day brings awareness to how powerful it is to finalize the process and be a child’s forever home.
Adoption Day celebrations were held Friday at the Coleman A Young Municipal Center.
The Kolnik family celebrated a long-awaited moment as they finalized the adoption of baby Olivia after a journey filled with challenges. For the Kolniks, the three-year process was a labor of love.
Olivia, who has special needs stemming from a difficult birth, joined the family that was determined to embrace her with open hearts.
“We always knew we wanted to add to our family and we could handle a child with medical needs,” Lauren Kolnik said. “She fits right in.”
The adoption of Olivia wasn’t just a milestone for the Kolniks. Several families came together to celebrate Adoption Day at the Coleman A. Young Municipal Building.
The adoption of Olivia wasn’t just a milestone for the Kolniks. Several families came together to celebrate Adoption Day at the Coleman A. Young Municipal Building.
3rd Circuit Court Judge Karen Braxton presided over the ceremonies.
“This was the best experience as a judge,” Braxton said. “This was my first time having this opportunity.”
For the first time, the Streets family is officially a family of four.
“He’s so delightful, he’s the sweetest and he cuddles he loves his big sister so much,” said Megan Street, who just adopted a son. “I’m feeling excited, little overwhelmed but very excited he is legally our son forever.”
Roughly 400 children were adopted in Wayne County in 2023 and there is a growing demand for foster families.
“We were not his first foster home, so there’s a lot of families that have loved him,” Megan Street said. “He’s been with us 18 months, and he has a whole story.”
“I think whenever you adopt a child from foster care, it’s difficult,” said Sarah Street. “Because although we adopted Oliver, our hearts are with all the children up for adoption.”
The day’s festivities offered a glimpse of hope and possibility for children seeking stability.
“There are so many children waiting for their forever home, and there is no family definition — it’s just the love," Braxton said.
