[TarheelTeacher]

I finally registered for this forum after reading the posts for several days. I'm new to the adoption process and I've decided that I'm ready to adopt. I feel God's call to adopt a baby from Guatemala. I've started gathering info on different adoption agencies and am trying to read everything I can put my hands on. I'm wondering if anyone has any advice on financing an International adoption. I'm a single, 25-year old teacher (am in my 5th year of teaching) so money is always an issue. I also know that I'm not willing to let money stand in my way of bringing home my son or daughter. I know about the Federal Adoption Tax Credit although I don't quite understand it...any advice would be great! Thanks.

[Yash]

Hi,

Welcome to the board! I am also taking that step of faith to adopt with no money in hand to pay for an international adoption. But I believe God is leading me to this so I believe He will provide.

I've looked into low interest credit cards, grants (this has not been fruitful at all), an unsecured loan via my bank (I'm leaning towards this). Some people refinance their houses or take out a second mortgage.

I considered taking on a second job, but decided against it since I already have a little one at home. On a yahoo group I belong to someone suggested babysitting to raise extra money, I think I'll seriously look into that in the new year.

I looked into selling Mary Kay, tupperware, etc...but I'm not much of a seller. Plus I don't really know anyone who buys that stuff, my family and friends who would rather give me money then to sit through a sales pitch.

Maybe you could make some extra money tutoring?

If you come up with any ideas, please post them.

Merry Christmas,

Yash