You are
one of the 48 million Americans who have considered adoption from foster care,
more than any other type of adoption including private infant adoption and
international adoption. Even still, there are over 100,000 kids in the
U.S. foster system who wait for their forever family. Over the past 41 years,
Children Awaiting Parents has worked hard to debunk the myths that can act as a
barrier between a successful placement.
We have had hundreds of
prospective families contact us under the misconception that you have to be
rich to adopt out of the foster care system. This is simply not true. Many
agencies do not charge for the services they provide to families who are
adopting a child from foster care. In addition, a growing number of companies
and government agencies offer adoption assistance as part of their employee
benefit packages, including time off for maternity/paternity leave, financial
incentives, and other benefits. Congress has also made federal tax credits
available for foster care adoptions to help offset required fees, court costs,
legal and travel expenses.
Not only do you not have to be
rich, you don’t have to married, own a home, or be of a race to become an
adoptive parent (Nearly one-third of adoptions from foster care are by single
parents). In fact, families are as diverse as the children who are available
for adoption. Patience, a good sense of humor, a love of children and an unconditional
commitment are the most important characteristics.
Another myth is that all
children in the foster system are saddled with “baggage.” Please keep in mind
that the term “special needs” is somewhat misleading because it can mean that
the child is older, a minority or requires placement with his/her siblings.
While some children are dealing with physical or emotional concerns, they need
the nurturing support only a permanent family can provide.
State agencies are legally
required to provide full, factual information about a child to any potential
adoptive parents. Agencies have an invested interest in ensuring that parents
have a positive experience with foster care adoption so they will continue to
adopt and recommend others do the same. For children who have physical,
emotional or behavioral problems, agencies seek to provide the most
comprehensive services available to help the children transition
into their new homes. Financial assistance does not end with the child’s
placement or adoption. The vast majority of children adopted from foster care
are eligible for federal or state subsidies that help offset both short-and
long-term costs associated with post-adoption adjustments. Such benefits, which
vary by state, commonly include monthly subsidies, medical assistance and
social services.
No matter where you are at in
the adoption process, we encourage you to contact us. Together, we have more than 40
years of experience in adoption and foster care. We are advocate for both
children and families. Take the next step and call us at 888-835.8802.
Children Awaiting Parents
