TRAVIS COUNTY -- Two dozen Travis County children got a second chance at life when they were adopted into new families Thursday.
In front of a Travis County juvenile court judge, sisters Alley and Mia posed with their new mommy and daddy, Danielle and Victor Chapa.
"It makes me feel great," said Danielle. "It makes me feel great that she can trust again enough to call someone 'mom,.”
The sisters were placed into the family's care in April. The couple already had three children ranging in age from seven to 21.
"The first time I saw them, I knew they were going to be mine. I felt it in my heart,” said Danielle.
"They were caught in a cycle, and I'm just glad I broke it," said Victor. "There's no way they would have had a chance where they were at. They need a chance.”
In all, 25 children get new homes and new last names as part of Austin Adoption Day.
For the event, the Gardner-Betts Juvenile Justice Center was transformed into a scene out of the Wizard of Oz with Dorothy’s famous words in mind, “there's no place like home.”
The children involved have suffered some type of abuse or neglect in the care of their biological parents.
Outside one of the courtrooms Maria and David Cardena wait for their turn to adopt a daughter.
"It's very exciting. There's not really words to describe it,” Maria Cardena said.
Five-year-old Rosie is their answer to a long awaited prayer.
” We tried for 21 years,” said David. “We both can't have kids, but God gave us a gift. God gave us her."
Rosie came into their home as a foster child in February. With the judge's approval, they make it permanent.
"She is yours and you are hers forever and ever. Congratulations,” said the judge with the swipe of the gavel.
It is a new beginning and a new life the three have always dreamed of.
In Travis County, 138 children are waiting for adoption. If you are interested, call the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services at 1-800-233-3405.
