Application
While the majority of children in the foster care system are adopted by relatives or foster parents, thousands of other kids remain in need of permanent families. Adopting a foster child begins by applying with a local or regional public adoption agency.
Requirements
Adoption agencies will consider both married and single individuals for the adoption of a foster child. You are not required to be a homeowner and there are no set income requirements. An agency will require that you provide certain documents such as a marriage license, birth certificate and medical records. You will also have to submit to a criminal background check and may be asked to supply character references.
Home Study
The home study portion of the application process will vary among agencies, but it generally involves a series of meetings with a social worker. Some states contract with licensed private agencies to conduct home studies. This agency representative will counsel prospective adoptive parents about what it means to be a caregiver to an adopted child. Some agencies will conduct one-on-one meetings as well as joint sessions with potential foster parents. Other adoption organizations will meet with several families at one time. As a part of the home study process, most applicants are asked to write basic information about themselves and their life experiences. A home study will include at least one visit to your home by a case worker.
Counseling and Support
As you prepare for the adoption of a foster child, your social worker will provide ongoing support such as referring you to special interest groups to help you meet the particular needs of your future child, as well as recommend parent support groups. Some adoption agencies require family preparation classes. Once a home study is completed, the process to adopt a child who has special needs may take only a few months, while the average wait for a healthy newborn ranges from 2 to 7 years.
Finalzing Placement
Once a foster child is placed in your custody, your case worker will continue to supervise your family for period of no less than 6 months before the adoption can be officially finalized. Many agencies continue to provide post-placement services, such as individual and family counseling, to the adoptive family. If a child was receiving counseling or special schooling prior to the adoption, it will most likely be continued.
