“I’ve always wanted to adopt…but I don’t think we can afford it.” Chances are you’ve heard someone say something like this. Maybe it was a coworker. A cousin. A friend from church. Maybe you wanted to respond, but you weren’t sure what to say. The truth is, many people who dream about adoption never take the next step because of myths they’ve heard over the years. That’s why Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) believes we are all recruiters. When we know the facts, we can help someone move from “maybe someday” to “I’m ready to learn more.” Here are a few of the biggest myths you can help clear up:
Myth #1: “Adoption costs too much.”
Many people are surprised to learn that adopting a child from Alabama’s foster care system is often free. If you’re adopting an older child who is in state custody, APAC provides the required training and home study at no cost. The Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR) also helps with court costs, and many families may qualify for a federal adoption tax credit. For someone who has always dreamed of adopting, this information can open a door they didn’t know was there.
Myth #2: “I can’t afford to raise a child.”
Raising a child does cost money, and it’s normal to wonder how you would make it work. That’s why many children adopted from state custody qualify for a monthly adoption subsidy based on their needs. They can also receive Medicaid until age 18. Children adopted after age 14 may even qualify for free tuition at an Alabama public college or trade school. These programs help families focus on what matters most: building a loving home where a child can grow and thrive.
Myth #3: “I don’t make enough money or have a big house.”
This is another common misunderstanding. You do not have to be rich to adopt. There is no minimum income requirement. You simply need to be able to meet your family’s basic needs and handle unexpected expenses. You also don’t need a large or fancy home. During the home study, the goal is to make sure a child will be safe and have enough space—not to judge your decorating style or the size of your house. Children aren’t looking for perfect homes. They’re looking for safe, loving ones.
Myth #4: “I’m single or too old.”
Many people believe they have missed their chance to become a parent. The truth is, single adults and older adults can adopt, too. There is no one “perfect” family. Children need caring adults who are ready to love them, guide them, and cheer them on through life’s ups and downs. If you have room in your heart and a strong support system, you may be exactly the kind of parent a child is waiting for.
What Does a Future Adoptive Parent Really Need?
Most people who adopt don’t start out knowing all the answers. They start with questions. That’s okay. No one is expected to figure out adoption on their own. At APAC, we’re here to walk alongside families from the very beginning. We provide free training, answer questions, offer encouragement, and continue supporting families long after an adoption is complete. Sometimes, all someone needs is the confidence to take that first step. And that first step often begins with a conversation.
One Conversation Can Change a Life
The next time someone says, “I’ve always wanted to adopt, but…” don’t let the conversation end there. Share what you’ve learned. Encourage them to ask questions. Point them to APAC, where they can get honest answers and caring support. Sometimes changing a child life begins with nothing more than an honest conversation. At APAC, we’re here for families every step of the journey. We offer free pre-adoption training, guidance through the adoption process, and support long after the adoption is complete. Our goal is to help children and families build strong, lasting connections. When more people know the truth about adoption, more children have the chance to find the love and security they deserve.
Because every child deserves a forever family. And when it comes to helping them find one, we are all recruiters.
Special thanks to Jem Lamb, LICSW/PIP, APAC Pre-Adoption Trainer, whose passion for helping children find forever families inspired the ideas shared in this blog. Through APAC, Jem works with prospective adoptive families every day, providing education, encouragement, and support throughout the adoption journey.
