How old are the children who are available for adoption through DePaul Family Services?
Children available for adoptive placement are primarily nine years of age or older. They may have some "special needs" or have brothers or sisters who need to be placed with them in an adoptive family.

What are "special needs?"
Special needs" can look like lots of different things. It can be behaviors resulting from sadness and anger such as aggression, attention-deficit and hyperactivity, bed-wetting, defiance, depression, impulsiveness, low self-esteem, and a lack of trust in others. Children who have been neglected or abused may have difficulty in school, or lack social and self-care skills. A child with "special needs" may be older, of a minority or mixed race, or have siblings.

How much does it cost?
As long as prospective adoptive parents want to adopt a child who is in the custody of a Virginia Department of Social Services, there is no charge for adoption services through DePaul.

How can DePaul Family Services offer adoption services for no cost?
DePaul Family Services' adoption programs are funded by grants from the Virginia Department of Social Services. These grants are focused on placing children who are in the custody of the Virginia Department of Social Services into adoptive homes and providing support services to these adoptive families.

Do I have to be rich or have a large home?
No. The kids available for adoption through the Virginia Department of Social Services need families who will love them, and provide structure and consistency. We look for families who have a belief in adoption and the ability to commit themselves to the love and care of a child; patience and perseverance; a good sense of humor; love of children; flexibility in dealing with change, stress and challenges; tolerance and understanding; a willingness to learn; and resourcefulness.

Is there anything in my past that might prevent me from becoming an adoptive parent?
A felony conviction would be a barrier to adoption; however, there are some exceptions. Additionally, having an illness that would shorten your life or prevent you from parenting your child might also be a barrier to adoption. You would need to discuss your specific situation with the adoption social worker.

I'm afraid I couldn't afford special therapies for a child with "special needs." Can I get help paying for that?
Most kids adopted through DePaul Family Services qualify for subsidy. This is a monthly financial payment that helps adoptive parents pay for special services that a child may need. You can ask the adoption social worker for more information about this.

What do I need in order to adopt a child?
You need an approved adoption homestudy. After you complete the homestudy process, you and your social worker will work together to identify the child or children who are right for your family.

What is involved in an adoption homestudy?
The homestudy process prepares you to parent through adoption. You and your spouse (if married) will meet with an adoption social worker a minimum of four times so that your social worker can get to know you. You and your spouse will attend a number of training sessions that will help to prepare you for parenting a child with special needs through adoption. Through this process, you'll work to identify the type of child you feel you can best parent.

Do I have to be married?
No. You can adopt as a single parent.

How long does it take to adopt?
The time it takes to adopt varies. The adoption homestudy process usually takes from three to six months depending on how quickly you move through the meetings and trainings. After you have an approved adoption homestudy, your social worker will work to find a child or children who are right for your family. The length of time this takes depends on many factors.

If I'm already a foster parent and want to adopt a child in my home through foster care, how long does it take to finalize the adoption?
It depends on how long your child has been in your home. If your child has been in your home for at least 6 months, then usually the supervisory period is waived after you sign a placement agreement. This means your child's adoption will be finalized in a shorter length of time than if your child is newly placed in your home.

Are there any services available after the Adoption Placement Agreement is signed?
Yes, the DePaul Adoption Specialist provides post-placement support to the adoptive child and family. Some of the grants offer comprehensive services throughout the adoption process including the critical period after adoptions are finalized.

How do I get started?
Call DePaul Family Services and make an appointment to meet with the adoption social worker for more information.

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