[Slokerscal]

We need help with adopting an older child from Portugal. We need to have an independent hs done while partnering with the Michigan gov't, as Portugal does not work with private agencies, and EVERYTHING needs to go between the Portuguese gov't and this entity in Michigan that I haven't yet found. I can't find an agency willing to "trailblaze" with us in Michigan, since adoptions from Portugal are so rare. My understanding is that all paperwork will need to go from this agency through our state gov't in Lansing to Portugal, but which agency will partner with us to do this??????

Any insight is welcome........

[Peggy 1100]

Have you considered going through your local Bureau of Children's Services? They are a governmental agency and might be willing to help. Good Luck. Peggy

[Slokerscal]

I did contact them awhile ago and had a bad experience, but should probably try them again. Thanks-may just have reached someone on their "bad day", and appreciate the response!

[mgummere]

Have you chosen a social worker to do your home study?
Have you asked him/her for contacts in the local gov't in Michigan that can help you with your adoption?

I have used the same social worker for 6 years (over 5
international adoptions) and she is fantastic! She
has some great connections and if you haven't settled
on a social worker - e-mail me (mgummere@yahoo.com)
and I will give you her contact info. She may have some ideas
on who you can contact

Mary

[Slokerscal]

Thank you for your offer! I have not even spoken with many social workers in Michigan. I am happy to take you up on your offer to provide some names for me. Are you in Michigan?

Shelli

[mgummere]

Hi Shelli,

I live in NE lower Michigan (near Traverse City). I have
a social worker that I have recommended lots of times and
everyone is very happy with her. She is just the greatest
person! I have known her for 6 yrs and through 5 (almost
6) international adoptions.

She has seen me through 3 China, 1 Russia and 2 Taiwan
adoptions, so she is very flexible as to country requirements and
the home study.

E-mail me privately and I will give you her contact info.
She lives near Grand Rapids but travels up here, and
as far as Detroit.

Mary
mgummere@yahoo.com

[isobel_monsted]

Hi!
I have just read the posts about adoption from Portugal and was wondering whether you have made any progress? If so, is there any information you could share about your experiences. We are looking at adopting a 5 - 7 year old child and would like to know if this is possible from Portugal. I appreciate any information you can give me about this.
Thankyou!
Isobel