OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — Our high school seniors are dealing with some major disappointments from not having a prom to possibly not getting to have an official graduation ceremony. But the community is coming together to help them celebrate and lift their spirits.
What this group of individuals is doing is great, but for it to work, seniors have to be put up for adoption.
One senior received two visits from her adoptive families. Each brought gift baskets to lift her spirits.
"It was devastating, we came so far, 12 years of school and just for it to end so fast," said senior Shainell Marion.
The Omaha and Surrounding Adopt a Senior Program allows parents and kids to put themselves up for adoption.
Shyla Johnson, adopted a senior class of 2020
"When I joined there were only 10 members, and within a week we had 6.500 in no time," said Shyla Johnson of the group.
The group is now up to 7,500. Along with photos, the kids post information about themselves so their adoptive families know what they like.
"Reading through the accomplishments these kids have done is just truly rewarding," said the page's founder Dani Jenkins. "When they say 2020 strong, these kids really are 2020 strong"
To protect the kids the group is private and you have to be approved to join.
"I just love the generosity of people during this time," said member Farah Friedrichson.
Those adopting are hoping to do what they can to lift their spirits.
"I just wanted to put a smile on her face, something my wife and I decided to do," said Jason Lothridge.
"Just to see the smile on their face, was so touching...knowing that they are getting through this time," said Susan O'Donnel.
Parents are also pitching in and doing all they can to make their kids feel special without a formal graduation and prom, but the adoptions seem to be making a difference.
"It brightens up our day because we are doing school online, through video and struggling with not having a teacher there, so getting these put a smile on my face, knowing that there are people there to help us get through this crisis," said Marion
So if you're a senior, wanting to be adopted or a person wanting to adopt a senior, just go to their Facebook page:
Omaha and surrounding areas, adopt a senior class of 2020.
