WAUKESHA, Wis. — Amid National Adoption Month, Waukesha County Juvenile Court finalized several adoptions for local children in foster care on Friday, Nov. 8.

Throughout this month, many organizations work to raise awareness about adoption, celebrate families impacted by adoption and encourage people to learn more about the adoption process. 

Kevin and Jennifer Poston were among the parents who celebrated an adoption on Friday.

What You Need To Know

  • November is National Adoption Month

  • Waukesha County declared Nov. 8 as National Adoption Day

  • Four families in Waukesha County adopted four foster children

The Postons have five biological children together, but decided to open their home to help children in need. They’ve fostered three children over the past nine years.

“There are children who need safe homes, safe families and foster care is one way to help support that,” said Kevin Poston.

Two years ago, Kevin and Jennifer Poston began fostering 4-year-old Melaina.

“She has this vibrancy about her that just draws people in, and she’s like a little magnet. She is a ball of energy. A little Energizer bunny, and she is so loving,” said Jennifer Poston.

They took the necessary steps to adopt Melaina, and it became official Friday.

“She’s been a part of our family a long time. So, in some ways, nothing’s changed. But to be able to say 100% for sure to her, that she’s got a forever home, it’s really neat,” said Kevin Poston.

On the day of Melaina’s adoption, three other foster children were adopted as well. One of them was just a 1-year-old baby. The other two kids were 6 and 14 years old. There was a lot of emotion in the courtroom as they all became “official” members of their families.

So far, in 2024, 34 children have been adopted into families in Waukesha County, according to Foster Care and Kinship Services Director Michelle Jones Lim.

But the need for foster families is still great. Jones Lim said there are about 70 kids in Waukesha County Foster Care.

“Don’t be afraid to take the first step. There’s no obligation. Reach out, get more information, talk to people,” said Jones Lim.

To qualify as a foster parent in Waukesha County, you must:

  • Be 21 years of age or older
  • Pass a criminal background, child protective services and caregiver check
  • Possess sufficient verifiable sources of income
  • Meet physical home environment requirements and have homeowner’s/renter’s liability insurance
  • Have bedroom space for a foster child. A foster child cannot share a bedroom with an adult
  • Participate in professional training provided during the licensing process. In addition, ongoing training each year is required
  • Be willing and able to work with and respect the child’s biological familyHave love and patience to share
  • Be invested in the future of our community’s children

If you believe you meet the qualifications, you can apply here.

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