POST RELEASE:  Adoption Day 2025

SAN JOSÉ, California (November 21, 2025):  Today, judicial officers and staff of the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara, joined with the Santa Clara County Department of Family and Children’s Services (DFCS) at the Family Justice Center Courthouse to commemorate National Adoption Day. Together, they finalized 16 adoptions and celebrated the many ways families are built and strengthened. 

“You are changing the course of their lives. The permanence these children gain is one of the greatest gifts we can offer. These kids are home now, so thank you for opening your hearts and making such a profound difference in their lives,” said Hon. Judge Shawna Schwarz. 

On National Adoption Day, courts and communities across the United States work together to finalize thousands of adoptions and honor the children and families who are joined through adoption. Each year, community events highlight the joy of providing permanent, loving homes to children. 

“We know it has been a journey to get to this day, with ups and downs, tears and moments of joy. To the extraordinary families who stepped up to say, ‘We love you unconditionally, we will be there for you unconditionally, we are your forever family,’ thank you for giving these children the greatest gift possible,” expressed Wendy Kinnear, DFCS Director. 

Beyond the numbers, each adoption reflects a story of resilience, hope, and new beginnings, and honors the collaboration of families, social workers, attorneys, and court staff who make that possible. In Santa Clara County, we cherish Adoption Day as a time to raise awareness about the need for adoptive parents, inform our community about the process, and celebrate the families who open their homes and hearts to children in need of lifelong stability.