Adoption Through Foster Care

Family Reunification is the primary goal of Catholic Charities West Michigan’s Foster Care Program, however sometimes the parental rights of the biological parents are terminated and children become eligible for adoption. In cases such as these, children are left looking for a “forever home.” Catholic Charities West Michigan works with these children and potential adoptive families in order to help children find a permanent home that they can consider to be their own, forever.

Many children are available for adoption along with their brothers and sisters. Families who are able to provide a permanent and loving home for three or four children are often needed. Adoptive families are also needed for older children, teens, and medically fragile children.

What does it take to be an adoptive parent?

Families who are successful in adoption have many of the following characteristics

• Sense of humor
• Tolerance for rejection.
• Ability to delay parental gratification
• Flexible expectations
• Ability to meet their own personal needs
• Ability to use resources
• Flexible family roles
• Possess a strong social support network

What is required to become an adoptive parent?

Adoptive parents must be 18 years of age or older and can be single or married. If married, both parents must apply. Adoptive parents are required to complete the following items in order to be approved for adoption which include but are not limited to:

• Adoption application
• Medical clearance
• Background checks
• Family assessment

Applicants must be licensed foster parents so that they can be available to take children into their homes as foster-to-adopt placements.

Did you know?

• Over 3000 children in Michigan are waiting for a permanent, loving home.
• An adoption subsidy is available to families of children who qualify
• There are minimal fees associated with adopting a child from foster care
• Families who adopt from the foster care system are eligible for an adoption tax credit