Fost-Adopt

The foster adoption process begins with two-hour orientation that walks participants through the adoption process and general information about the foster care system. Holy Family Services provides monthly orientations to prospective Resource Parents seeking information about our programs. We equip prospective parents with a step-by-step overview of the legal, financial, and emotional process in becoming adoptive parents through foster care. HFS lays out a clear framework for what’s required by state law to qualify to become Resource Parents.

Once the orientation step is completed, HFS provides a registration packet that includes self-study materials and intake forms. Individuals and/or couples who choose to proceed submit their completed materials along with a non-refundable $100 registration fee which initiates the intake interview.  The interview are usually done at our office during regular work hours.

Upon completion of the intake interview, prospective clients will receive an application. This detailed packet includes a checklist of ALL California requirements to become a Resource Family, including medical clearances, criminal background checks, birth and/or marriage certificates, financial disclosure forms, references, etc.

After applicants have completed the application packet, HFS will begin the assessment with  one-on-one and couple interviews (if applicable). HFS will also evaluate the home for safety and trainings are required prior to approval.  All this information is collected to create a family Psychosocial Assessment or home study.

This assessment looks at prospective parents’ personal history, financial stability, medical well-being and current home safety. HFS walks individuals and families through the process in a respectful and non-judgmental way.

HFS will provide prospective Resource Parents pursuing adoption with specialized training (30 hours) to enhance their knowledge of child development, parenting skills specific to the needs of foster children, and a look into the child welfare system.

Additional classes are required for Resource Parents.  This include CPR, First Aid, and Water Safety (if there is a body of water on their property).  All classes need to stay current while an active adoptive parent.

Once prospective parents have received an approved assessment they are approved to match with children in the foster care system.  We have a close relationship with surrounding counties and will give all of them your approved assessment to better your chances to match with children you are open to. You will tell us what ages, ethnicities, behaviors, risk levels and amount of children you are open to.

If there are situations that your social work thinks you might be interested, they will contact you to discuss.  You are involved in the matching process by participating in meetings in which you will learn about the children you are interested in.

Unlike infant adoption, children placed through the fost-adopt program enter the home as foster children prior to the completion of the adoption process, with the clear understanding that they will be adopted by the Resource Parents as soon as possible. They remain with their new families as foster children until the process of terminating birth parent rights is complete, and the adoption process is formalized.