About Adoption
“Seven years ago, we never dreamed of becoming foster parents, however, we knew we would always adopt. Thinking of our own pain of possibly saying good-bye to children we cared for in foster care seemed out of the picture.
One day we discovered a little girl in need of a forever home, which required us to become foster parents. We agreed to become licensed, and adopted her. Six years later, we have adopted four of the best kids in the world, and been an aunt and uncle to many more.
Overlooking our fear of good-byes, to provide love, care and hope for foster children who have been broken themselves, makes our pain easier to bear and their memories a little happier.”
— Kelly & Michael, Adoptive and Foster Parents
What is adoption?
Adoption is a legal proceeding creating a parent-child relationship between persons not related by blood. The adopted child is entitled to all privileges belonging to a natural child of the adoptive parents.
In 2005 there were 1306 adoptions of children in foster care custody through Washington State's Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), with more children still awaiting adoptive homes.
The purpose of the foster to adopt program is to meet the permanency needs of children who are in the care and custody of DSHS. DSHS strives to find safe and stable families that can best meet the needs of the child.
Many people who consider adoption are concerned with the financial costs associated with the adoption process and the many services which children with special needs may require.
The costs of adopting a child from the public foster care system are typically kept to a bare minimum and may be eligible for re-imbursement. Incurred costs are generally limited to:
- Attorney fees
- Adoption home studies (if completed by someone other than DSHS)
Who can adopt?
To be an adoptive parent, you are required to be:
- 18 years of age or older
- Legally competent
- Have an approved home study
For additional highlights of Washington State laws and rules, see Adoption Laws at-a-glance.
Adopting from DSHS
Children available for adoption through DSHS reside in foster care or relative care and are unable to be reunited with their birth parents. Children placed in out-of-home care may have been abused and/or neglected. The children range in age, gender, ethnicity, abilities and may be part of a sibling group.
Fostering Together will walk you through the adoption process with DSHS or other private agencies working with DSHS. We provide pre-training information, guidance, peer support and information regarding your local DSHS office. Our recruiters can answer your questions and guide you through this life-changing decision.
Getting Started
We understand that becoming a foster parent is a life changing decision for everyone involved. We have a network of foster and adoptive parents who are ready to help you make the right decision for you and your family. See our Resources page for links to more information, or contact us,
