EDWARDSVILLE - On Friday, December 19, 2025, the Madison County Circuit Court hosted its eighth annual Adoption Day, finalizing adoptions for 36 children from foster care and uniting them with loving, permanent families.
Many children in foster care endure waits of three or more years for adoption, and one in five will age out of the system without ever finding a forever home. Events like Adoption Day highlight the joy of permanency while underscoring the ongoing need for adoptive families.
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“The goal of the child welfare system is to place children in loving, stable, and permanent family homes,” said Circuit Judge Amy Maher, Presiding Judge of Madison County’s Juvenile Division. “We are fortunate to have dedicated organizations, staff, and volunteers who make this day truly about the children, their families, and friends. Today is the happiest day of the year at the courthouse.” Judge Maher added, “Adoption Day is a celebration of new families and a reminder that many children continue to wait for their forever homes. This marks our eighth year hosting this special event, and we look forward to creating many more families in the years ahead.”
Presiding over the adoptions were Circuit Judges Amy Maher, Patrick King, Dennis Ruth, Sarah Smith, and Chief Judge Christopher Threlkeld, along with Associate Judges Andrew Carruthers, Angela Donohoo, Ronald Foster, John Hackett, Martin Mengarelli, Ron Motil, Maureen Schuette, and Justin Zimmerman.
Following the court proceedings, families enjoyed a festive celebration featuring a balloon arch for photos, balloon animals, a magician, face painting, crafts, and visits with Santa Claus.
For more information on becoming a foster or adoptive parent, visit dcfs.illinois.gov, select “Loving Homes,” and click “Become a Foster or Adoptive Parent.”
