For nearly 15 years, Cozy lived in Arkansas’s foster care system, waiting longer than any other child in the state to be adopted. At 19, his wait has finally ended.

This week, 11Alive News has reported that Anna and Tim Dietrich welcomed him into their family through adoption, marking the beginning of a new chapter. Surrounded by relatives, friends, and community members, Cozy’s milestone was celebrated as more than just paperwork — it was the start of a forever bond.

"Every single one of our waiting kids deserves a family. They deserve a community like [the one] gathered today, and we are so grateful for each one of you," said Anna Dietrich, who, along with her husband, felt compelled to adopt their new son.

"The Lord made it very clear that we were supposed to all out, adopt him. We're supposed to give him our name, give him our family, give him our whole hearts," Anna Dietrich told 11Alive.

For Anna, who works with Project Zero—an organization focused on finding permanent homes for children in foster care—Cozy’s adoption illustrates the kind of support every child should receive.

 "Cozy is getting a whole crew today, and we're so excited, and that is what we want for every single one of our waiting kids. So until there is zero, let's start this up again tomorrow, because today we're celebrating," she told the outlet.

Leaders in child welfare echoed that message. Tiffany Wright, Director of the Division of Children and Family Services, noted, "Even as we celebrate this beautiful day, we must stay focused on the goal of finding homes for other children who need them, and the critical work of Project Zero. This adoption gets us closer to our goal of zero."

For the Dietrichs, the sense of calling was undeniable. "The Lord was gonna have to make it clear who is ours, and he's just made it abundantly clear, Cozy is ours," Anna said.

Cozy has quickly become the centerpiece of their lives. "First time we met with his team, they were telling us about the things that he really likes and toys that he likes, and they really focused on the star. And so for some reason, that's kind of become our banner for him is a star, which is why he's wearing stars, and he's got a star necklace and star toys," Tim Dietrich shared.