You’re considering adopting a child 5 years old or older, but don’t know where to start. And you’ve heard a few rumors that make you question if you’re qualified. As you think about bringing another member into your family, Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) is a collective between the Children’s Aid Society of Alabama and Department of Human Resources that’s ready to partner with you, starting with debunking some common myths about adoption in Alabama.
Myth #1: I need to own my home to adopt.
Fact: You’re not required to own your living space. Renting your home is not a barrier to adopting. You also don’t have to live in a traditional single-family home. You’re welcome to live in an apartment, duplex, or other dwelling – as long as you have the space in your heart and the capability to add another under your roof. There are some minimum requirements regarding living space, but APAC will help answer your questions.
Myth #2: I can’t adopt because I’m single.
Fact: You don’t have to be married to be a wonderfully supportive adoptive parent. In fact, around 30% of all adoptions are from single parents. Whether you’re single, or you have biological children, adoption is a rewarding journey. No matter your gender, religion, or political preference, you will be received with open arms into the adoption process at APAC.
Myth #3: I’m too old to adopt.
Fact: You’re never too old! As long as you’re at least 19 years of age, you’re encouraged to consider what it would mean to be a positive parental role model in a child’s life through adoption.
Myth #4: I need to be wealthy to afford an adoption.
Fact: At APAC, we believe income should never be an obstacle to adoption. APAC services are free for the entire adoptive family. Most adoptions even come with legal stipends, meaning that you’ll have no or little out-of-pocket cost.
APAC will be your connection point to a network of supportive professionals to guide you every step of the way as you welcome and integrate a new member into your family. From ongoing counseling services with master-level therapists and crisis intervention care as needed, you’re never alone.
Myth #5: I can’t adopt because I’m not a foster parent.
Fact: You don’t have to be a foster parent first to become an adoptive parent. The children APAC recruits for are cleared for adoption through Alabama’s Department of Human Resources, and you do not need to have experience as a foster parent. Our free training will provide the credentials required by Alabama’s Department of Human Resources to become an adoptive parent in Alabama.
APAC also has the largest adoption and foster care library in Alabama. Library materials are online but can also be shipped anywhere in the state, ensuring that you have the resources you need when you need them, all free of charge.
APAC will also help introduce you to other adoptive families. Therapist-led Adoptive Family Groups (AFGs) are hosted in-person and virtually around the state. These groups are where you’ll form meaningful relationships with other adoptive families while also receiving education for your specific age and stage. You can also support and be supported by other adoptive parents via our private Facebook group moderated by APAC.
Adoption: Creating a Loving Home for All Children of Alabama
Every adoption is uniquely challenging and rewarding. But every adoption also builds an irreplaceable family unit. APAC provides resources, information, and all-encompassing support to spur you on as you grow your family through the fulfilling process of adoption—all at no cost to you. If you’re thinking about adoption, consider the facts. You may just be the life-changing parent a child you haven’t met yet is yearning for. To learn more about how you can change the life of a child and your own life through adoption, please click here.
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