Adopting from Foster Care

ADOPTING FROM
Foster Care

HEARTS TO HOME

Are you ready to open your heart and home to a child in need? We’re here to guide you through this life-changing journey. We provide comprehensive support and resources to help you navigate the adoption process and welcome your child into your family.

deciding to adopt from Foster Care

Adopting from foster care is similar to other types of adoption. There’s decision-making, paperwork, and a great deal of preparation before the dream of becoming a family is a reality. However, foster care adoption stands apart in several key ways:

Children's Backgrounds: Many children in foster care have experienced trauma, neglect, or abuse, which can create unique emotional and behavioral challenges. Adoptive parents need to be prepared to support their healing and growth.
Parental Rights Termination: In foster care adoption, the biological parents' rights must be legally terminated.
Age and Availability of Children: Most children in foster care are older (often school-age) or part of sibling groups. Infant adoptions are less common compared to private or international adoption.

Adoption Costs: Foster care adoption is often much less expensive, and in many cases, it’s subsidized by the state. Families may receive financial assistance, including for medical care and other support. Many grant opportunities also exist to help with costs.
Ongoing Contact with Extended Birth Family: In some cases, foster care adoptions may involve open or semi-open arrangements, where adoptive families maintain some level of contact with the child's biological relatives.
State Involvement: Foster care adoptions involve close coordination with the state child welfare system, which provides oversight and support throughout the process.

Trying to imagine what adopting from foster care might look like?

We’ve had the privilege of working with families and children from all walks of life to make adoption a reality. Visit our Stories page to hear inspiring journeys from families just like yours!

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Have you wondered if you are eligible to adopt? You probably are!

There are many myths about who is eligible to adopt from foster care. Here are some of the basic requirements:

Must be at least 21 years old, with no upper age limit for foster care adoption.
Open to individuals and couples of all relationship statuses, including single, married, partnered, straight, LGBTQ+.
Whether starting your family or already have children in your home, you are welcome.
Homeowners and renters alike are eligible.
Almost any income level is acceptable, as long as you have a stable income to support the family.

People of all races, ethnicities, and religions are encouraged to adopt.
Adults with medical conditions, mental health conditions, or disabilities are not automatically disqualified. These factors will simply help determine the best match for the child you can parent.
Must be a permanent legal resident.
A background check is required for all applicants. If you have a criminal history, you must discuss the details with your adoption specialist. Depending on the nature of the charges, you may still be eligible to adopt.

THE ADOPTION PROCESS

Step 1

Inquiry and Consultation

Inquire to learn about the process, requirements, and services provided. View the Hearts to Home fee schedule here

Step 2

Adoption Education

Participate in our state-approved training to prepare for parenting a child with a trauma history.

Step 3

Complete a Home Study

Your adoption specialist will guide you through interviews and home visits to assess your readiness for adoption. Learn more about the Home Study process.

Step 4

Child Search and Support

Our dedicated team will work to find the right match for your family. We utilize various adoption listing sites, community-based care centers, and networking opportunities to connect you with waiting children.

Step 5

Adoptive Parent Support

Join our Waiting Adoptive Parent Information and Training (W.A.I.T.) group for support, training, and discussions with other prospective adoptive parents.

Step 6

Placement Preparation

Get ready to welcome your child with our step-by-step guidance.

Step 7

Post-Placement Support

Receive ongoing support as your family adjusts and thrives after placement.

Step 8

Post-Adoption Support

Support doesn’t end at adoption. Contact us any time you need help or guidance.

LEARN MORE

Start your journey by learning more about the complex topic of adoption from foster care.

Trauma

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Legal Status

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Open Adoption

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WHAT FAMILIES ARE SAYING

Working with Heart of Adoptions to adopt our son was a very welcoming process. Prior to coming to Heart of Adoptions, we faced discrimination at more than one agency, so we were leery at first. However, we felt comfortable every step of the way. Not once were we pigeonholed. Not once were we stereotyped. They wanted the same thing we did: the absolute best for our growing family.

We’re here to Answer Your Questions

How long does it take to adopt from foster care?

The time it takes to adopt from foster care can vary widely depending on factors such as the availability of children, a family’s openness to special needs, and the readiness of the child and adoptive family. On average, the process may take several months to over a year from the initial application to finalization.

How much does it cost to adopt from foster care?

Adopting from foster care is typically more affordable than private adoptions. Many states, including Florida, provide financial assistance and subsidies to help cover adoption-related expenses. However, there may be additional costs, such as home study fees and other incidental expenses. Contact us for detailed information on potential costs and available financial support.

Am I eligible to adopt from foster care?

While basic eligibility requirements may vary, they generally include:

Being at least 21 years old.
Maintaining a stable income and providing a safe, suitable home.
Successfully passing background checks and health screenings.
Completing required training and obtaining an approved home study.
Since each agency and state may have additional criteria, it’s important to check with HOAA for specific eligibility requirements.

What is a home study?

A home study is a thorough evaluation process designed to assess the suitability of prospective adoptive families. It involves interviews, background checks, completion of required training, home visits, and assessments of your family’s readiness to adopt. The primary goal is to ensure that your home environment is safe and that you are well-prepared to meet the needs of a child.

How old are children in foster care?

Children in foster care who are available for adoption in the United States are typically older than those in private or infant adoptions. The majority are between the ages of 5 and 17, with the average age around 8. Teenagers and sibling groups are also common among children waiting for adoption.

What information is provided about children who are potential matches?

When you are potentially matched with a child, you will receive comprehensive information about their background, medical history, and any special needs or requirements they may have. This information is crucial for helping you understand the child’s unique needs and preparing for their transition into your home.