If you are looking for a child to complete your family, then the equation is working in your favor because, at present, as many as 1,34,000 children are awaiting permanent homes in the U.S. Foster Care System.
Waiting children are those who are legally released for permanent adoption, either by the U.S. Foster Care System or by the U.S. Public Welfare Program. Waiting lists include children of all ages and races. These children can be single, or members of sibling groups. A child can be adopted only after the biological parents have terminated their parental rights and responsibilities over the child legally.
Adoptions can be made through public or private licensed adoption agencies. These agencies not only help in locating the perfect child for you but also help with the various legal procedures involved in adoption. Waiting lists include newborn children, adults, international children and children with special needs. Some children get adopted more easily than others. Children with special needs, face the utmost difficulty in getting adopted.
Children with any kind of special needs mostly belong to minority races and are often members of sibling groups. Some of the children could either be afflicted with minor or severe disabilities. While some disabilities are correctable, some other children manage to outgrow their afflictions. More often it is seen that these kids retain their handicap. The basic fact is they need family affection, love and support.
The idea of adopting children shouldn’t be daunting. Instead, a practical approach should be applied. People who choose to adopt children must acquaint themselves with the child’s particular problem and should have the ability to deal with it efficiently. Many agencies advise against adopting severely afflicted children from abroad, as these children have to cope not only with their own handicap, but also with problems of acclimatization.
It’s possible to view the photographs and portfolios of children who are on the waiting lists over the Internet. This facilitates both the prospective parents and the children themselves. This information can be viewed on the web sites of various adoption agencies.