Today, thousands of children are in foster care, and this placement was not the result of anything these children have done. In addition, many individuals and couples desire children but do not or cannot have them. Fortunately, there is a solution to both challenges.
Through foster parent adoption, those who desire children can adopt children who need homes and families. However, these individuals should know a few things about this process.
You cannot adopt all foster children
You can only adopt those children whose parents have lost or given up their parental rights. In addition, most of the children in need families are older, ranging in age from two to 21 years.
Parental rights revocation
The goal of the foster system is to reunite children with their biological parents. Therefore, a judge will typically work with the parents on a plan to get their children back. However, if the parents fail to follow the plan, the judge will terminate their parental rights. At this point, you can adopt these foster children.
Approval from the state’s foster system
Gaining approval is a process that can take time. It includes a home study and preparation. You may also need to foster available children. Each state then determines when you can adopt your foster children. For example, WV requires a safety inspection, criminal background check and PRIDE training completion.
Adoption has a low cost
If you adopt from the foster care system, your cost will be $0 to $2,500, which is significantly less than any other adoption program. However, most states have a residency requirement.
If sex, age and race do not matter to you, research the foster care adoption program. This process is challenging, but you should find it incredibly rewarding to give a home and family to children who need them.