Adopt
Adoption
| Heartland for Children is looking for adoptive families who are interested in becoming a forever family for children in the foster care system, who are looking for adoptive homes. These children have special needs and are typically older children who often have behavioral, emotional, and medical needs. They require a strong family, who can provide a loving, safe, and stable environment to help them develop and feel comfortable as part of the family.
Individuals interested in adopting infants or toddlers are encouraged to contact the following: Florida Baptist Children's Home: (863) 687-8811 Catholic Charities: (863)686-7153 View children waiting for a loving home |
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| Q: | What is adoption? |
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| A: | Adoption is making a child permanent and legal member of your family. Adoption means giving a forever permanent home and a family to a child who currently has neither. It also means providing a child a loving and stable environment, understanding, and guidance so that he or she can reach their potential. |
| Q: | What children are available for adoption? |
| A: | Children of all ages, races, and ethnic groups. Many are brothers and sisters who need to grow up together. Some children are physically, mentally, or emotionally challenged. View children waiting for a loving home |
| Q: | Why are children in need of an adoptive home? |
| A: | Some have been abused, neglected or abandoned. Others may have handicaps or severe medical needs. |
| Q: | What types of families are needed for these children? |
| A: | Families that have strong support systems, a sense of humor and the ability to deal with new experiences. Patience and the ability to make a lifelong commitment to a child are most important. |
| Q: | How much does an adoption cost? |
| A: | The only cost is the attorney's fee to finalize the adoption. The Florida Department of Children & Families reimburses this fee when the adoption is finalized up to $1,000. |
Five Steps to Adopt a Child
- Participate in training. The sessions help applicants make an informed decision about adopting.
- Complete background screening for criminal history or reports of child abuse.
- Complete a health screening and obtain a health certificate from your doctor. This will be used to determine your physical and mental capabilities to provide care for children.
- Participate in home and health inspections. A city or county health inspection is required for all homes.
- Complete a home study with an adoption counselor.
If you live in Polk, Hardee, or Highlands Counties and want additional information about how to adopt a child, please contact Suzanne Wiggins, Foster Home and Adoption Liaison at:
(863) 519-8900 ext. 289
