[USMCCOUPLE]

My husband and I have been going through infertility for a long time. We have decided to jump off that wagon and move on. It is emotionally draining as well as physically draining.

Can anyone tell me, since we do not have the financial means to spend 30,000 plus on an adoption, what the chances are of us adopting through the state, county. We would like to adopt a 0 to 4 even 5 year old. Since we have not been parents before we would like the child to be as young as possible.

I don't think we are prepared to deal with a Special Needs child, I would not like to be denying a child a home but honestly if I know I couldn't handle a situation I would be doing a disfavor to the child as well.

Any help? Info? How hard would it be?

Thanks!

[damianca]

Look into foster to adopt with your local social services agency. It should be in the phone book, or find a local county agency like Canyon Acres in Orange County. These organizations will be able to get you started and you don't have to pay for it, infact they help you along to get certified and also to support the child.

Hope that helps...

Damian

[blsdmama]

Here in our county they have an infant relinquishment program through the county's dhs. They are on the lookout for young stable couples too. We have friends who were licensed and within one month were placed with their just turned two year old. We've just gotten licensed for the same age group you mentioned and I expect we'll be matched (hopefully) within two months or less. The process of getting licensed can take a bit of time, but it is manageable. Can you get a "healthy" child? Well, that depends... physically healthy, absolutely. However, realize that NO child is taken away from their parents under ideal circumstances. Many of the parents are drug users. This can lead to lasting effects or NO effects. Sometimes they've been abused or neglected. The important part is knowing your limits. No one expects you to know these NOW. This is what PRIDE classes are for... to help you understand what you can handle. State adoption is $0-$500 depending on your income. This includes *all* costs including court costs. In the state of California, because of so many children and so few homes, almost every single child is considered "special" needs. Which means that they usually come with a monthly subsidy which will continue after the adoption is final 'til they are 18. Generally it can also include Medicare. It is a very good way to go, especially in California. We are military too and would not dream of adopting from our home state, but are holding our breath to see what transpires here in San Bernadino County.

[BrandyHagz]

If the USMC means one of you is a Marine, you might try Navy & Marine Corps relief.

I know they have a lot of contact with single WM's that place...at least they did at Lejeune...

I know of at least one Marine and his wife that adopted and paid almost nothing...Talk to Legal aide, they may be able to handle most of the legal aspects, should you decide to go private also...


Good luck with your search!