Many foster children have siblings whom they need to be placed with.
In 2009 there were 5,927 children waiting to be adopted in the state of Virginia. Many of these children are aged 6 years and older and have complex physical, mental and emotional needs. Adopting a child can be a positive and rewarding experience for both parties, particularly for couples who are unable to have children of their own. Adopting a foster child in Virginia follows the same straightforward process as adopting non-foster children or step-children.
Instructions
1. Ensure you meet the minimum requirements for adopting a foster child in Virginia. According to the state Department of Social Services, potential adoptive parents must be age 21 or older and able to provide a "safe, loving environment." Parents may be married, single or divorced and may work outside of their homes.
2. Contact the Adoption Resource Exchange of Virginia to register your interest in adoption. You can do this by calling 800-DO-ADOPT or by filling out the inquiry form in Resource 1. You will be asked some preliminary questions and may be referred to your local social services department.
3. Complete the adoption application form. This is available from the Virginia Department of Social Services and will ask you questions about your income, family history and health. If you interested in adopting a particular foster child, be sure to include her name and case number in your application.
4. Complete a home study. This series of meetings between your family and a social worker will help the state to determine your eligibility for adopting a foster child. The outcome of this meeting will determine the type of child you are able to adopt --- for example, a special-needs child.
5. Complete the child selection. If you have passed the previous stages, a social worker will bring photographs and information on the children that you may adopt. When a suitable child is found, a placement at your home can begin.
6. Complete the six-month supervisory period with your adopted child. This is an opportunity for you and the child to get to know each other better and to make sure that the placement is right for both parties. During the supervisory period a social worker will visit your home on at least three occasions, as required by Virginia law.
7. Finalize your adoption. If all goes well during the supervisory period you may complete the final procedure of the adoption process. Hire an attorney to file a court petition for adoption and to request permission from the relevant agency. From here the judge will complete the final order of adoption. You may change your mind about the adoption at any time up to the point of final order.
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