Adoption FAQ

What is adoption?

Adoption is a legal placement of a child or children with an adoptive family who will raise that child as their own.

What is our philosophy?

We believe that it is the right of every child to have a secure and permanent home and family environment at the youngest possible age.

What is our goal?

Our goal is the permanent placement of children with the best available adoptive parents, those who can provide the optimal environment to enable the child to grow to his/her fullest potential.

What is involved in the adoption process?

Persons interested in adoption begin by deciding which type of adoption is best suited to their families. Everyone who adopts a child must participate in a home study. This essentially is the story of your family. To complete a home study, applicants will complete an application process to include personal interviews with our adoption staff.

Persons considering the adoption of children with special needs participate in a specific training program (STARS) to help them become more prepared to meet their needs. After the placement, a period of supervision and support is available before the adoption is finalized.

Is adoption expensive?

There are specific fees associated with some of the services provided in the adoption process. For some children, adoption subsidies are available to pay the expenses involved in the adoption process as well as help with the on-going expenses of parenting a child. In other instances, there are tax credits for families who have paid adoption services fees.

Can a single person adopt?

Yes. Single persons can adopt a child or children and are encouraged to apply.

Are there any age requirements?

Yes. You must be at least 21 years of age to adopt a child.

Can I see any of the children who are available for adoption?

Children available through our infant programs are normally placed as soon as they become legally free for adoption.

For international adoptions, please visit our partnership program with Children's Home Society and Family Services.

For Missouri children awaiting adoption through the Children's Division, please visit http://www.dss.mo.gov/cd/adopt/index.htm For more information, please contact us at adoption@chsmo.org or 314.968.2350 x240