5 Things to Know About Foster Care Adoption | How Does It Work

Introduction

Did you know that there are nearly 1,000 children waiting to find their forever homes in the state of Virginia? Unfortunately, many of these children have experienced neglect, abuse, or abandonment. The foster care population has been steadily increasing, with one of the contributing factors being the misuse of opioids, including heroin and prescription painkillers.

At the Children’s Home Society, we have been dedicated to placing children into loving, permanent homes since 1900. We are proud to report that we successfully finalized almost four adoptions every month in 2019, including those of older children with special medical needs.

What is Foster Care Adoption?

Foster care adoption is a process wherein a child is placed in foster care due to an unsafe or unstable home environment. The biological parents are given a period of time to prove that they can provide a safe and stable family environment. During this time, the child may reside with an approved foster family or group home.

If the parental rights are terminated, the child becomes eligible for adoption, and the court will seek a permanent family for them. If the child cannot return home or reside with a relative, the foster family may have the option to adopt the child, known as “foster to adopt.” In cases where the foster family is unable to adopt, the child will be matched with an adoptive family.

Am I Eligible to Adopt?

Foster care adoption is an excellent option for families regardless of the child’s age, race, gender, or special needs. Contrary to some myths, you do not have to be married, have a certain income level, or own a home to adopt. Additionally, adoptive parents can be single, in a same-sex relationship, or in a heterosexual relationship. There are no educational requirements to adopt a child.

If you are interested in giving a child in need the gift of a forever home, foster care adoption may be the perfect choice for you.

Children Waiting for Adoption

The majority of children in foster care waiting for adoption are over eight years old. Adopting older children and teens can have a profound impact on their lives. Compared to their peers who age out of foster care, these children are more likely to finish high school, pursue higher education, and experience emotional stability. By adopting older children, you can help break the cycle of abuse and offer them a brighter future.

Post-Adoption Support

Adoption is a lifelong process that comes with its challenges. After the adoption is finalized, adoptive parents must be prepared to support children with behavioral issues resulting from their past trauma. At the Children’s Home Society, we provide personalized post-adoption support services to ensure successful family relationships. Our services include parent coaching, specialized education in trauma and attachment, and training in effective parenting methods.

Conclusion

Foster care adoption is a rewarding and challenging experience, but it can change a child’s life forever. At the Children’s Home Society of Virginia, we are committed to finding permanent adoptive parents for children throughout the state and providing ongoing support for families. Virginia’s children deserve better, and by adopting an older child or teen, you can make a difference.

“If a child waits, their future fades. Adopt today and change their destiny.”

For more information on how you can give a child in need a forever home, please contact us at:

• Richmond: 804-353-0191
• Fredericksburg: 540-226-0583

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