Melina and Fatima receive stuffed animals after their adoption is finalized Friday, Feb. 14, 2025 at the Duval County Courthouse in Jacksonville, Fla. (Chanel Martin/Family Support Services)

There were hearts, flowers, candy, and not a dry eye in the courtroom, as 12 families made their adoptions of 17 children official at the Duval County Courthouse in Jacksonville, Fla., with some families attending the festive event via Zoom.

Dependency Court judges Michael Kalil and Collins Cooper led the proceedings, facilitated by Family Support Services of Duval and Nassau Counties and their community partners. The agency also provided stations for the kids to create their own valentine, enjoy sweets, take a themed family photo, and the court provided stuffed animals for the newly-adopted youth.

WATCH: Camille Covin’s story of adoption from foster care started with a student’s story

WATCH: Camille Covin’s story of adoption from foster care started with a student’s story

Among them were Camille Covin, who adopted sisters Malina and Fatima after years of fostering; and Shawkina Kirby and Tony Dukes, whose young daughter Adrionlee joined her parents in matching Valentine’s Day-themed garb. Tony Dukes described Adrionlee’s adoption as receiving a gift from God and the greatest gift he didn’t know he needed.

WATCH: Valentine’s Day adoption lights up Duval County Courthouse

WATCH: Valentine’s Day adoption lights up Duval County Courthouse

With more than 300 children in Duval and Nassau counties open to adoption, the need for permanent, loving homes is ongoing — particularly for teens and sibling groups. To learn more and begin your adoption journey, click here.

Follow Family Support Services on Facebook for more information about upcoming events.