Description of Adoption Process

Catholic Charities Adoption Services

Inquiry

Persons interested in adopting a child should write, email, or call the agency.  We invite all persons interested in adoption to an orientation meeting.

Orientation

Attendance at an Orientation session is an opportunity to learn the requirements and expectations of our adoption program and information about the different types of adoption.  Orientations are presented by adoption staff, are free of charge and open to all who are interested in becoming adoptive parents, and are a required first step in the adoption process for those who have not adopted previously.  General topics of discussion at orientations include Minnesota adoption guidelines, domestic and international adoptions, infant and special needs and older child adoptions, fees, wait times, length and description of process, and question-and-answer time.  Accommodations are made for those outside the St. Cloud area.

Application

You may request application materials after attending the Orientation session.  Completed application materials must be returned to the agency with a picture of the applicants, medical forms, background release forms, and the application fee.  Agency staff reviews applications and background and medical reports before proceeding with the Adoption Study.  We will notify applicants if questions arise from the applications, background checks, or medical reports.

Adoption Study (Pre-Adoptive Counseling)

The adoption worker invites applicants to an Intake Interview.  We interview couples together and separately, exploring their interest in adoption while allowing the adoption worker to get to know them.  Applicants attend group education sessions dealing with topics such as infertility, openness, diversity, legal issues, and the needs of birthparents and adoptees and adoptive parents.  Emphasis is placed on assessing the ability of applicants to meet the needs of the children and the requests of the birthparents.  Applicants need to arrange for meetings and interviews during normal business hours.

Length of Process

The length of time between the Orientation session and the Adoption Study depends on time of completion of the application materials and autobiographies.  The Adoption Study starts soon after the application materials are returned to the office.  The Adoption Study is usually completed in three (3) to four (4) months. Placement of a child with approved families usually occurs within 2-3 years.  Legal adoption can be initiated three (3) months after placement of a child with a family.  Catholic Charities cannot guarantee that a child will be placed with a family or that a family will be recommended as an adoptive family by the agency or be selected for a placement.  Catholic Charities will follow legal and ethical guidelines in completing home studies for adoption.

Response Time

Completed applications should be returned within three (3) months of receipt.  If you need more time, please contact us.

• Please also see General Information & Guidelines
  

Adoption Services, 157 Roosevelt Rd, Ste 200, St Cloud MN 56301 | 320.650.1666 | Revised 070223