NEW HAVEN, Conn. -- There was a big celebration in New Haven on Friday to mark National Adoption Day.

The Department of Children and Families held a public ceremony for one of the babies who was adopted through the Safe Haven program. On Friday, Nick and Sylvia, who asked that their last name not be used, officially adopted 9-month-old Nicole in a special proceeding at New Haven Probate Court to mark National Adoption Day.

Nick said, “She's changed my life totally. She gives me a reason for what I do and makes it fun when I come home to have her waiting there to jump all over me. She is really special.”

Nicole is one of eight Safe Haven babies to be dropped off at a Connecticut emergency room since the law was enacted in 2000. The law allows mothers to drop off newborns, no questions asked, and gives parents, like Nick and Sylvia the priceless chance to start a family.

Nick said, “There's kids out there that really need a home. Just don't be afraid to do it; this is the greatest thing that can ever happen to anyone.”

The event was designed to celebrate the new family, but to also spread the word to others.

Susan Hamilton, commissioner of the Department of Children and Families, said, “We obviously throughout the year do a host of things to get the word out about the need to be an adoptive and foster parent, but things like today really highlight that in a unique way because really, today they've become a family.”

The Department of Children and Families is hoping others will consider adoption or becoming a foster parent.

To find out more, dial 1-888-KID-HERO.