Monday, November 22, 2010

Families celebrate adoptions of 58 foster children in Jefferson County this year

Published: Saturday, November 20, 2010, 5:40 PM ??? Updated: Saturday, November 20, 2010, 5:42 PM

For LaDarius Raybon, one word sums up his and his twin brothers' adoption this year: "Perfect."
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? After being in foster care since he was a toddler, LaDarius, 12, was happy that he would no longer have to worry about being taken from his foster parents of 10 years, the Raybons.
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? LaDarius, KeShun, DeShun and their parents, Tom and Olivia Raybon of Northport, celebrated in Woodlawn today with other new adoptive families.
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? The Jefferson County Department of Human Resources put together the event to recognize the 58 Jefferson County foster children adopted in 2010 and their families, said Shuereaka Holston of DHR.
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? Families took part in games, arts and crafts and pony rides, and ate lunch at Birmingham Dream Center.

? Olivia Raybon said even though she has cared for the boys for most of their lives, the adoption in May gave her a newfound bond. "I knew then that they were really mine," she said.

? The Raybons, who have 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, said they are still foster parents and open to caring for at least two more.

? There are about 914 children in foster care in Jefferson County, according to DHR officials. Of that group, 63 children are waiting for adoption.

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