Four siblings make their plea to be adopted together

Four young siblings in foster care, separated into different homes, are hoping that a special couple will hear their plea to be adopted today and act.  It has been more than two years since they have lived together, but their bond is still strong despite their distance.

On a day when these kids could be kids with no worries or fears in this moment, three brothers and a sister are simply happy to be reunited.  "Because I get to see them," said 12-year-old Dontae.

The separation has been hard as Dontae, nine-year-old Delores, eight-year-old Leon and seven-year-old Hakeem have spent the past two years in different foster homes.  "It's sad," said Delores.  "I miss my brother and sister," said Hakeem.

Department of Children and Family Services adoption specialist Katrina Evans says the goal is to adopt this sibling set together, but realistically that might not be feasible.  Splitting up the children could lead to a more promising adoptive placement.  "I would love for them to be together, but we want to keep families in mind so they won't be overwhelmed," she said, "but we also want to find the best home for them."

All four children are polite, do well in school and show respect to their foster parents, like Mary Williams who takes care of Leon and Hakeem.  "They have their routines and chores," she said, "and they love to ask what I need them to do and they're always saying, 'Ms. Mary, are you okay?'"

When I asked the four kids what type of parents they would like, race did not matter, location was not an issue - they just cared about one trait.  "Nice," said Dontae.  "Nice and sweet," said Delores.  "Nice," said Leon.  "Kind," said Hakeem.

While the idea of being adopted would be a dream come true, these brave children still have some fears.  "It is scary," said Dontae, "because I don't know them."

Yet, all four children are willing to open themselves up to the potential of being together again, with a forever mom and dad.  "I think certainly the boys would need a strong male presence," said Evans, "but we also need that nurturing mother to be there for them."

All four children are ready to be adopted today.  The Department of Children and Family Services can let you know how to pursue their adoptions and about the financial help that could help offset some of the expenses.  Call 337-491-2470 to make an inquiry.

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