Military families make excellent adoptive families. These families are accustomed to a structured lifestyle and are experienced in adjusting to new surroundings, building new connections and supporting each other. In addition, military installations have built-in support networks, including substantial health care and housing benefits, as well as “ready-made” communities.
Patriotic Cannady Rose was Adopted by Jessica and Justin in March 2018.
For military families considering adoption, there are a variety of both support services and financial resources available before, during and after the adoption process:
- Up to $2,000 reimbursement for qualified adoption expenses
- Up to $13,570 in Adoption Tax Credit
- Up to 21 days of adoption leave to bond with your new child
- Health care benefits before the adoption is final
- New Parent Support Programs on many installations
- Exceptional Family Member Program for children with particular medical and/or educational needs
- Military and Family Support Centers
- Military-run and military-subsidized child care options
- Affordable Child Development Programs
- Military and Family Support Centers
- Head Start and Sure Start
- DoD child and youth programs, which can help your child make friends, stay active and develop new skills
- Military Kids Connect offers engaging tools and games to help children prepare for the challenges around family transitions
Military families and their communities have many strengths including resilience, diversity, inclusiveness, social networks, and educational and health benefits which support them wherever they live.
If you, or someone you know, is in the military and is considering adoption call A Child’s Hope at 919-839-8800.
Additional information on adoption resources for military families can be found at the National Military Family Association, Military One Source and the DHSS Child Welfare Gateway.
Adoption support from the financial side include:
- Adoption Grants: There are several grants for adoption available to waiting families who have completed the home study and meet certain Organizations like Abba Fund, National Adoption Foundation, the Goetz Foundation and many others may be able to help you fund your adoption.
- Employer Assistance: Some employers provide financial assistance and leave from work. You should check with your employers’ Human Resource Department to see what adoption benefits exist.
- Adoption Fundraisers: Many families turn to creative adoption fundraising ideas to help finance their adoption. Consider online adoption fundraising on websites like Go Fund Me, or host a traditional event, like a yard sale, bake sale or golf tournament.