Adoption Through Foster Care

Although Family Reunification is the primary goal of Catholic Charities West Michigan’s Foster Care Program, there are times when children are unable to return home and biological parents lose their right to be caregivers for their children. 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 or teens

What does it take to be an adoptive parent?

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

• Sense of humor
• Ability to delay parental gratification
• Tolerance for rejection
• Flexible expectations
• Ability to meet their own personal needs
• Ability to use resources
•  Flexible family roles

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:

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

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

Did you know?

• Adoptive parents are needed for children of ALL ages
• Over 5,000 children are available for adoption in Michigan
• 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