There are over 6,000 Kansas children in foster care, with nearly 1,000 needing adoption. In Kansas, the number of children in foster care reached all time highs this past spring. Children needing adoption range in age from infants to teens, but most are eight or older and often siblings sets of three or more (wishing to stay together), or special needs children. There is also a particular need for adoptive families of teenagers.
Electing to adopt a child currently within the foster care system can be a wonderful choice for both the adoptive families and the selected child. Foster care adoptions are relatively inexpensive and can proceed quickly, depending upon the individual circumstances of the child.
The following is a list of frequently asked questions concerning foster care adoptions, designed to provide you with some more information on this wonderful type of adoption so that you can then seek the assistance of a licensed adoption attorney to complete your adoption.
What are the characteristics of a successful adoptive parent?
The single most important characteristic of an adoptive family is their ability to care for, support, and love a child that biologically is not their own. Other important characteristics include dependability, flexibility, stability, and maturity.
Do I have to be married in order to adopt a foster child?
No. Adoptive parents can be married but may also be single, divorced, or widowed.
Do I need to be a homeowner in order to adopt?
No. Adoptive parents can be renters or home buyers, live in a house, apartment, or mobile home. Your home must be safe and be able to accommodate every member of your household, but there are no requirements beyond this.
Do I need to make a certain amount of money to be approved to adopt?
No. Many adoptive parents have modest incomes. Subsidy programs may additionally be available for some parents that adopt. Financial aid programs, grants, and tax credits can also assist adoptive parents financially.
Who are the children available for adoption?
The children currently looking for homes within the Kansas foster care system are mostly age eight or above. They come from a wide variety of socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds. Most were taken from their birth families’ homes due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment. The parents of all children eligible for adoption have had their parental rights terminated, making reunification impossible. Many of these children have siblings that they wish to stay with. Some children have special needs.
How much does it cost to adopt a child from foster care?
This will depend upon the agency or attorney you choose to work with, but most adoptions from foster care come at a minimum cost.
Is training provided?
Yes. Before you can adopt, you will be required to attend a 30 hour parenting class intended to prepare you and your family for becoming adoptive parents. There is no charge to attend the course and it is offered throughout the year.
McDowell Chartered: Kansas Adoption Attorneys Helping You Complete Your Family
Adopting a child currently within the Kansas foster care system can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Foster care children within our state need homes at record rates. This type of adoption is inexpensive and can often be completed in just a few months. For assistance with your foster care adoption, contact the experienced Kansas Adoption Attorneys at McDowell Chartered. Our seasoned attorney team can help you to find a child and successfully complete an adoption. Call us today at (316) 633-4322 for an initial consultation.