*For all press release inquiries, please reach out to Theresa Meyer (Theresa.Meyer@mail.house.gov)

Otsego, MN - Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) announced the honorees of the 2020 Angels in Adoption from Minnesota’s Sixth Congressional District, Markus and Sarah Yager.

Each year, the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI) selects families across the nation who have demonstrated a commitment to improving the lives of children in need of permanent, loving, forever homes. The Yagers are being honored this year for their enduring fight and sacrifices to adopt their daughter, Olivia. 

"This morning, I had the distinct honor of virtually meeting a special family in Minnesota’s Sixth Congressional District. Markus, Sarah, and Olivia Yager became a family through a long and difficult process. I commend the Yagers for going above and beyond to adopt Olivia, and doing everything in their power to create a loving home for a child in need,” said Emmer.

Background:

Markus and Sarah Yager started their adoption process in 2017. A year and a half later, they were matched with their daughter, Olivia. Early in May of 2019, they went to meet and formally adopt their daughter. During their time in Nigeria, they experienced paperwork delays, and after two months, Markus had to return to the United States for work, leaving Sarah and Olivia behind to finalize the adoption process.  

The Yagers navigated the Nigerian adoption system for months, paying fees, travel expenses, and making many sacrifices; but through their faith in Christ, they endured. Shortly before Thanksgiving in November of 2019, their family became complete and they were all able to travel home.

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