It has been a long journey for Gary and Martha Gould.
They chose to be foster parents as a pathway to adopt a child of their own.
The couple fostered three children before little Juliana came into their lives.
She was up for adoption through the City Administration for Children's Services.
"She's rambunctious, she’s loving, she’s happy, and she just makes our lives so complete,” said Martha Gould.
They say Juliana's adoption process through ACS and Staten Island Family Court took 15 months.
Jayme Steadman of ACS said the process to adopt is typically difficult and can take up to two years. But, Steadman said the rewards outweigh the challenges.
“People get a chance to open up their hearts and their homes and we all know that once a child has found a forever family it means a lifetime of support, and that is crucial,” Steadman said.
More children are waiting for their second chance. Officials at ACS estimate there are 3,000 foster children awaiting adoption in New York City.
Steadman and the Goulds encourage others to consider adoption during National Adoption Month.
“I just love the fact that November of course is a time of Thanksgiving and this just brings everything together,” Steadman said. “Just to have those happy smiles and those families that you know are going to be together forever.”
Anyone interested in adoption or becoming a foster parent within New York City can call 212 -676-WISH, or visit: http://www1.nyc.gov/site/acs/child-welfare/become-foster-adoptive-parent.page to learn more.