Adopting through DHS?

Question

My husband and I have been thinking about adopting through DHS. We have 2 children of our own ages 6 and 1. We have always wanted to adopt and it feels like the right time. My question is has anyone adopted through DHS and what was the experience like? Is it difficult and does it take a while to get approved? Thanks

Answer 1

We went through the process in about 8 months.  We've been approved for a little over a year and a half, and haven't gotten a placement yet, but that's unusual.  The process is different in every state.  I don't think it was difficult at all.  It was actually a good time for soul-searching.

Answer 2

I have never adopted but have worked in the foster care/adoption unit at DHS. It is a lengthy process to adopt any child, and DHS is not different. However, this ensures that you are adequately prepared and the child is a good fit with you. You will need to have a home study; either DHS will do it themselves, or contract out to a private agency. They will discuss your background and family history, check out your home, and talk to several references that you provide. There is a lot of paperwork involved. In addition, you and anyone over 18 need criminal checks, child abuse checks, and FBI clearances.

My advice is to call your county's child protection agency. You can speak with a caseworker there and they will give you specific information for your state. I am in PA, so some of this info may differ. Just for reference, here is the PA Adoption exchange website: http://www.adoptpakids.org/paeswan.asp. Your state should have their own, just Google it. Good luck, and I think it is great that you plan to adopt in the United States. Nothing against foreign adoptions, but there are many children here who need permanent homes as well.