Adopting a child is a great way to expand your family and change a child’s life for the better. In the state of California, there are over 58,000 children waiting for someone to step up and provide them with the love and care they deserve, but the number of available adults is significantly smaller. Many people don’t even consider adoption because they think they aren’t eligible, or they think the process is too complicated. Thankfully, neither is true.
Marriage Not a Must
A common misconception about adopting a child is that you need to be married in order to qualify. It is true that many foster children end up in two parent households, but single parents have plenty of love to offer too and are just as qualified to adopt.
Others postpone their adoption plans because they think they have to own their own home, but that is not necessary. As long as you live in a safe environment, you can proceed with the adoption process.
Definitive Rules
Even the age requirements are flexible. The only definitive rule is that you must be at least ten years older than the child you would like to adopt. Lastly, a lot of people worry about the costs of adopting or fostering a child. You don’t have to have a large income to be eligible to adopt. All you need is an income that is large enough to support a child’s basic needs.
Seeking Help for Adoption
There are other organizations that can help with the adopted/foster child’s special needs and/or medical expenses. Now that those common concerns have been put to rest, it is time to address the other reason that many people choose not to adopt. They have heard the process is long and complicated. Adopting a child can take time because adoption agencies want to be sure they are placing each child with the right families, but it is definitely worth it.
There are plenty of adoption agencies in Riverside County and all across southern California so finding a facility is not an obstacle. There are 4,000 children in the foster system in Riverside County alone, and they need your help. Consider adoption today by talking to professionals like those at ChildNet Youth and Family Services.
Sources:
Adoptions/Legal Guardianship, County of Riverside Department of Public Social Services
