LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) - The magic of Disney came to life in Little Rock on Saturday, June 2, as part of an effort to match foster children with their forever families.
For the 10th year, Project Zero held its Disney Extravaganza at Immanuel Baptist Church with rides, characters, games and snacks resembling those that you'd find of a theme park.
"Project Zero is a non-profit with one goal and that's to have zero kids waiting in foster care to be adopted," Project Zero Executive Director Christie Erwin said.
More than 80 percent of Arkansas' 345 waiting children attended, along with nearly 150 families looking to adopt.
"Our waiting kids matter and they deserve to have the very best life has to offer," Erwin said.
Xavier is one the kids Erwin is talking about.
"They put on these events so I can spend time with different people, and I feel like I can be myself around them," Xavier said.
17-year-old Xavier has spent much of his life in foster care. However, the aspiring chef is about to enter his senior year of high school and hopes that will soon change.
"I'm looking for a family that spends time with each other, also does family things, people that I can talk to and relate to," Xavier said. "It would make me really happy to know I've got somebody by my side every day," he said.
There were 70 booths at Saturday's carnival operated by local businesses, churches and individuals. Project Zero hosts similar events on a smaller scale every month.
"It's worth every penny. It's worth every minute. It's worth every prayer. It's worth everything we do to see our kiddos have hope," Erwin said.
Click here to learn more about Project Zero and the children looking for their forever families.