Isn’t life interesting? When I started this blog I expected to journal about the ups and downs of attempting to publish my book. Instead I find myself needing to update you on our adopt journey! Just like the Good Book says—God’s ways are higher than our ways!
I’ve been amazed to find that many people I know are also interested in adoption. This blesses me as the need is so great! I thought I’d share the information we’ve gleaned so far in a brief overview of the types of adoption
Domestic or Private Adoption: This is an adoption that takes place within the States. This type often involves the birth parent choosing whom their child will live with from various applicants. Infants are available for adoption through this avenue. Costs range from an estimated $10,000- $35,000.
Helpful site:
http://www.bethany.org
International Adoption: This is the adoption of a child from a foreign country. The child is usually classified as an “orphan.” Some may come from orphanages and others from a foster family. Most countries require the adopting family to travel to their country at least once. Sometimes, the adopting family must stay in the country for some period of time. The age of children available varies. The gender of children varies. (For example, although China has been known as the country of choice for adopting girls, there is now a waiting list for girls.) Cost also varies by country. Estimates are $20,000-$40,000.
Helpful site:
http://adoption.state.gov/
http://www.allgodschildren.org/
* People often wonder why these these types of adoptions are so expensive. Seems a little like buying a baby, doesn’t it? Actually, the costs add up quickly. There are various filing fees and travel fees and home study fees and legal fees and…more! The costs aren’t fully dictated by the agencies who facilitate the adoption.
* Don’t automatically shy away from these options based on cost. The huge numbers following the dollar sign can be a shock, but there are avenues where families can raise adoption funds, borrow a no-interest adoption loan, receive grants, and tax breaks.
The Steven Curtis Chapman Family has a site with loads of helpful information related to this topic.
http://www.showhope.org/
Adoption from Foster Care: This is the adoption of children who have been removed from their home due to abuse or neglect. These children live with ono-biological families who have been approved by the state to care for children. Adopting an infant from foster care is very, very rare. Although children are taken from their parents as infants if necessary, the goal of the state is to reunite them with their parents. If it becomes evident that this is not in the best interest of the child, the state will terminate the parent’s rights to that child. This process can take years. As a result, getting a baby to adopt is unlikely. Expenses are minimal.
In addition, foster families often adopt the children in their household when the children become adoptable. To adopt a child under eight years old, families will have better chances by becoming a foster to adopt family.
Foster to Adopt: These are families who have completed all the requirements to be foster families, but have requested to only have children who are most likely to become adoptable placed in their home. When and if the rights of the child’s parents are terminated, the foster family usually has the opportunity to adopt the child. Expenses are minimal and are usually related to passing a homestudy. (For example, purchasing a fire extinguisher or crib, etc.)
Foster Care: This is the temporary care of a child who has been removed from their home due to abuse or neglect. It is impossible to say how long a foster child will stay in your home. Foster parents can keep a child just overnight in an emergency or for months or years. There is a huge need for foster families. Expenses are similar to in a Foster to Adopt situation.
Please note that states have a limit of children that can be in the home while fostering. Florida, for example, will only allow 5 children in a home at one time for families who are fostering or fostering to adopt. Also, homeschooling children in foster may not be permitted. Once adopted, families are free to homeschool.
Contact your state’s Department of Children and Family Services for more information on the above.
Another option: Not really in the place to foster or adopt a child? You could sponsor one!
www.worldvision.org
Our experience:
We’re currently looking at a foster to adopt situation. The foster care workers, adoption workers, and case workers have all been helpful and hard working. You’ve probably heard some horror stories about “the system.” We all have. In truth, it isn’t perfect. Still, this can be a good option for many families who want to adopt or just help children who need love and hope.
My advice:
Don’t be afraid to research. Ask around. Send me an email. Contact an adoption agency or the Dept. of Children and Family. There is so much information to digest that you are going to feel overwhelmed. To combat that, devote small chunks of time to your research. Remember that the best way to tackle a huge task is to take it a little at a time!
Most importantly, pray and be open to what God may have for your family!
Thinking about adoption? I’d love to hear from you!
