The Chenoweth family marked a joyous occasion this Monday as they welcomed a new member into their household. Sporting matching shirts emblazoned with a rainbow and the phrase “It’s a beautiful day to complete a family,” the family from Lehighton celebrated a significant milestone.
During Lackawanna County’s annual Adoption Day, eight families embraced new chapters in their lives, officially adopting 10 children. The event was a gathering of celebration, with employees from the county’s Office of Youth and Family Services joining in the festivities.
“We have always wanted more children. And him coming into our lives was literally like a blessing,” expressed Jordan Chenoweth, holding her 2-year-old son, Amari.
The Chenoweths, residents of Carbon County, welcomed Amari into their family through fostering with Lackawanna County since he was 13 months old. The family includes parents Jordan and Conrad, along with their 10-year-old daughter and a 6-year-old foster son. When having more biological children became an impossibility, the Chenoweths turned to foster care and adoption.
“There’s so many children who need loving homes,” Jordan noted. “It was such a blessing. He was really the perfect fit, couldn’t imagine life without him. He’s amazing, He’s funny. He’s definitely the heart of the family. We are so, so honored to be able to adopt him.”
New Beginnings in Scranton
In a display of creativity, employees from Youth and Family Services dressed up as famous figures known for being adopted. Characters such as Buddy the Elf, the Grinch, Harry Potter, Babe Ruth, and Superman mingled with families and participated in photo opportunities.
Despite often dealing with challenging cases, the county employees took pride in the joyous occasion. “It’s a happy day in Lackawanna court today. It’s just a celebration of family, because not everybody gets to stay in their family, and some people have to make their own families,” said Lisa Sohara, supervisor of adoption and foster care. “We take pride in making that happen.”
Celebration in Court
In Lackawanna County, five judges presided over the adoption proceedings, which concluded with heartfelt applause and embraces. Judge Margaret Moyle officiated the adoption of two children by their grandparents.
“We recognize how hard it is to open your home to children after raising your own family … but you were here for them,” Moyle remarked. She presented plaques to the children, featuring the words, “I didn’t give you the gift of life … life gave me the gift of you.”
Among the attendees were costumed characters such as Annie, Simone Biles, Marilyn Monroe, Batman, and a minion, who occupied the jury box. Families exited the courtroom onto a red carpet, marking the end of a memorable day.
In the hallway, Megan Galgoci from Scranton awaited the official adoption of her nephew, Alek. Galgoci’s family began caring for Alek three years ago following the death of his mother, her sister.
“This is like the happiness at the end of the trail for us, to keep him in the family, secure his future,” Galgoci shared. “Alek has brought a joy to our family.”
