Local couple adopts typhoon survivor

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A Filipino child who disappeared during Typhoon Haiyan is now in Charlotte with her new parents.
 
The Martins were on a mission trip when the storm hit and had no idea she was missing until they got back.
 
On Monday, they spoke with Eyewitness News anchor Sarah Rosario about their adoption process and talked about ways they plan to help families interested in adoption. 
 
For Randy and Nancy Martin, having their daughter Kali is a dream come true.
 
"The first thing we wanted to do was hug her," said Randy Martin.
 
The couple has been trying to adopt for the past two years.

Four months ago, their adoption process was put in jeopardy when Typhoon Haiyan hit and their daughter Kali disappeared.
 
She was the only one missing out of nine children matched with families through Christian Adoption Services in Charlotte.
 
"It was a major rescue effort all for one little child," said Randy Martin.
 
Kali lived in the hardest-hit area near Tacloban City and was found about a week later.
 
Afterwards the 9-year-old met with counselors to see if she was still ready for adoption.
 
Last week, the Martins traveled more than 48 hours to the Philippines to get her.
 
"There were 50 children everywhere. They were dancing and screaming and little Kali was right out front," said Nancy Martin. 
 
Now that she's found her home in Charlotte, the Martins are enjoying taking the time to bond. 
 
"We got our haircut and our nails done." Nancy Martin said. 
 
They're hoping their story will help others interested in adoption.  
 
Christian Adoption Services is working with more than 60 families hoping to be matched with children by the end of this year.
 
We're told the greatest need is for children older than 7, sibling groups and children with special needs.
 
For more information visit http://christianadopt.org

To see more local news stories, click here.

WSOC