JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Family Support Services hosted its sixth annual Home for the Holidays adoption event at the Duval County Courthouse, bringing joy to families and children as 30 kids officially found their forever homes, just in time for the holiday season.
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Among the 17 families celebrating the occasion was Londeshua Kendrick, a mother of three who today became the mother of 10. Kendrick adopted her seven nieces and nephews, whose ages range from 13 to 2 years old. The youngest, who turned two just a day before the adoption, was particularly excited about the milestone.
For Kendrick, this adoption was about much more than completing paperwork. It was about fulfilling a promise made long ago to her brothers and sisters.
“When we were younger, my mom and her four kids sat down together, and we made a promise. We promised that if anything were to happen to one of us, we would take care of each other’s children. And today, I’m keeping that promise,” Kendrick explained.
Years ago, Kendrick made a vow to her siblings that if anything happened to them, she would take in their children. That promise was officially fulfilled today as a judge granted Kendrick full custody of her nieces and nephews, making her a mother of 10.
“It’s a big responsibility, but I’m ready for it. Love is what I have to offer, and that’s all they need,” Kendrick said. She shared some advice for others considering adoption, adding, “If you’ve got love in your heart, and you want to be loved, you’ve got to step out on faith and show that love. It’s as simple as that.”
Kendrick’s adoption story was just one of many today. Sixteen other families also celebrated the adoption of their children during this emotional event, marking a fresh start for kids who, just days ago, faced an uncertain future. For many of these families, today wasn’t just about legalities—it was about the promise of love, safety, and stability.
Jenn Petion, CEO of Family Support Services, said that the event holds personal meaning for her as well.
“Days like this remind me of all the memories from our adoption process. This event is personal for me, as I’ve also adopted two children,” Petion shared.
Family Support Services helps more than 200 children find forever homes each year. The Home for the Holidays adoption event provides families with the opportunity to make a lifelong commitment to children in need, giving them the stability they deserve.
As for Londeshua Kendrick, her growing family is already excited to begin this new chapter of their lives together. For her, the adoption is the culmination of a promise made many years ago, and she couldn’t be more thrilled to keep it.
The Home for the Holidays event continues to bring joy and hope to families, showing that the true meaning of the season is found in the love we share.
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