12-Year-Old Serriyah Finds Forever Family After Years in Foster Care

Serriyah is now thriving with straight A's, a cheer team, and a loving adoptive mom.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Years ago, 12-year-old Serriyah's story of searching for a forever family touched the hearts of many. After seeing Serriyah's video, foster mom Belinda felt an immediate connection and went on to adopt her. Now, Serriyah is flourishing - earning good grades, making the cheer team, and embracing every opportunity with the support of her new forever family.

Why it matters

Serriyah's story highlights the transformative impact that adoption can have on children in foster care, who often face trauma and instability. Her journey demonstrates the importance of foster parents and adoption in providing loving, permanent homes for vulnerable youth.

The details

Serriyah, now 12 and in sixth grade, is excelling academically with A's and B's and is also involved in extracurricular activities like cheerleading. Belinda, Serriyah's adoptive mom, saw Serriyah's Forever Family video years ago and felt an immediate connection, leading her to become a foster parent and eventually adopt Serriyah. Before the adoption, Serriyah lived in a loving group home, and she still maintains a connection with the caregivers who supported her during that time.

  • Years ago, Serriyah's Forever Family video first aired.
  • Belinda saw Serriyah's video and became a foster parent.
  • Belinda later adopted Serriyah, who is now 12 years old and in sixth grade.

The players

Serriyah

A 12-year-old girl who was previously in foster care and is now thriving with her adoptive family.

Belinda

Serriyah's adoptive mother, who saw Serriyah's Forever Family video and felt an immediate connection, leading her to become a foster parent and eventually adopt Serriyah.

Chrissy

Serriyah's best friend.

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What they’re saying

“She has a wonderful cheer coach.”

— Belinda, Adoptive Mother (cbs12.com)

“She is funny and connecting, and we do mommy and daughter stuff.”

— Serriyah (cbs12.com)

“I missed them.”

— Serriyah (cbs12.com)

“They were amazing with her.”

— Belinda, Adoptive Mother (cbs12.com)

“Serriyah just brings so much happiness, and she's taught me a lot about being brave and getting through hard things.”

— Belinda, Adoptive Mother (cbs12.com)

What’s next

Serriyah and Belinda plan to continue celebrating Serriyah's achievements and building their loving family bond.

The takeaway

Serriyah's story demonstrates the profound impact that adoption can have on the lives of children in foster care, providing them with the stability, support, and opportunities they need to thrive.