On November 7, 2025, the Gladney Center for Adoption in Tarrant County witnessed a heartwarming event as Associate Judge Lori DeAngelis completed the adoptions of 24 children into 22 families. This annual celebration, known as Gladney Adoption Day, marks a significant milestone for families finalizing their adoption journeys. Held in conjunction with National Adoption Month, the occasion serves as a reminder of the pressing need for adoptive families in Texas.
Judge DeAngelis, presiding over the special session, expressed her enthusiasm as she efficiently processed ten cases before noon. “We’re going to do 10 adoptions before noon, I believe,” she remarked, radiating positivity as families gathered in the makeshift courtroom. The event allowed newly adopted children and their siblings to participate by taking turns at the judge’s bench and ringing the gavel, an exhilarating experience for many.
The need for adoption in Texas remains substantial. According to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, approximately 4,000 children are currently awaiting adoption in the state. Mark Melson, President and CEO of Gladney, emphasized the importance of support for families considering adoption. “We have services we provide to families as they continue their journey,” he stated, highlighting Gladney’s commitment to ongoing assistance. “We have a lot of experience and data on what works and we share that with them.”
Gladney’s adoption numbers have shown a slight increase, a contrast to broader trends within the adoption sector, as Melson pointed out. “We’ve really put a lot of effort into the foster care piece here in Texas and looking at how we can grow that,” he shared. The Gladney Center, founded in 1887, has a rich history, particularly known for its services to unwed mothers during the 1920s. The organization gained further recognition from the 1941 Oscar-winning film “Blossoms in the Dust,” which depicted the life of its namesake, Edna Gladney.
In 2024, the Gladney Center took a pivotal step forward by partnering with an agency on the East Coast, significantly expanding its reach and resources. “We’re now in 11 countries,” Melson noted, underscoring the organization’s commitment to broadening its impact in the field of adoption.
Gladney Adoption Day serves not only as a legal formality but also as a community celebration. Melson remarked, “This lets the families come out and play, meet each other, and really celebrate.” The event fosters connections among families navigating similar experiences, creating a supportive environment for all involved.
As the day concluded, the joy of the families present highlighted the profound impact of adoption, showcasing the transformative power of bringing children into loving homes.
