Q: Who can be an adoptive parent?
A: Individuals who are willing to support a special child, and able to offer their time, attention and understanding to that child. Adoptive parents may be young or older, single or married - with or without children - and must have completed Florida's FREE standardized course of MAPP (Model Approaches to Partnerships in Parenting) training. A family's annual income isn't as important as their ability to open their hearts and homes to a special child.
Q: What kind of children are in need of adoptive families?
A: Children seeking adoption are no different than children with families - only they lack the love and support offered by caring, loving parents. These children's ages range from birth to 17 years and may be part of a sibling or minority group.
Q: What sort of help is offered the children and their adoptive family?
A: Children and their families can receive pre and post adoption support, to include family therapy, support groups and trainings for adoptive parents. In addition, adoptive families receive a monthly subsidy and medical coverage for the children until the children reach the age of 18. Prior to the finalization, there is also 24/7 on call support available.
Q: How long does the entire adoption process take?
A: In most cases, the entire process takes between 8-12 months before a child's placement in your home is finalized.
Q: Is adopting a child expensive?
A: In the State of Florida, all children classified as "special needs" are adoptable by a qualifying family with little or no cost. All major expenses related to the adoption process are paid by the State and the family normally incurs costs only for outings with the child, the purchase of any gifts, etc.
Q: What happens once the adoption is finalized?
A: Once finalized in a Florida Court of Law, the child becomes a permanent member of the adopting family, affording parents all rights and responsibilities that would come with a biological birth child.
Q: Does the adopted child or family receive any benefits?
A: In most cases, the State of Florida offers a monthly subsidy for the continued care of the child. Most children are eligible for Medicaid Health Insurance and, with minimal qualification, four years of college tuition at a State funded college or university.