Hundreds Of Now-Official Md. Families Celebrate National Adoption Day

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Hundreds of children across Maryland and thousands across the country are thankful this holiday season for a very special reason. They are joining their new families. Saturday is National Adoption Day and Tim Williams has more.

With a new name comes a brand new family.

"From this day forward, they shall be known as Alexia Claire Metro and Victor Xavier Metro," said a judge. "Congratulations!"

For these families and thousands nationwide, this Saturday is National Adoption Day.

"To promote the need for families to adopt the over 100,000 children in America who are waiting for permanent, loving homes," said Erika Slater, chair of Baltimore Adoption Day.

Dozens of children from Baltimore City and county and Prince George's County received new parents and new homes at the city's Circuit Court. Families like the Wilkens' have waited for Adoption Day. They now have seven children. The newest editions are teenage sons Devontay and Jordan.

"Now it just makes everything whole---our two boys and the girls and we're all one family now," said Ronald and Demetria Wilkens.

"It feels great to be part of a family. It's a lot to look forward to," said Devontay.

Nationwide, more than 100,000 children are in foster care awaiting loving families. National Adoption Day rolls around each year on the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Since it was established in 2000, more than 40,000 families have had their adoptions finalized.

"They are just warm, loving, open, supportive forever families," Slater said.

Nationally, this is the 12th year for the event.