Adoption Grants

Adopting a baby is an expensive and time-consuming process.  Before the baby even arrives home, there are adoption and application fees that must be paid.  Couples must also go through intense background and interview screens that often last for years.  If you are looking to adopt, there are adoption grants available that can help ease the financial burden of adopting a baby.

Before you apply, keep in mind that adoption grants generally do not cover the entire cost of adoption.  These grants usually cover a portion of the adoption fee or a portion of medical expenses. 

It is also common to incur a small fee in order to apply for adoption grants.  This fee is used to ensure that each person who applies for a grant is serious about adoption.  The fee also covers administrative costs associated with processing grant applications.

The best place to find adoption grants is through an online search.  There are several nonprofits that provide grants, such as the Child Waits Foundation, the Gift of Adoption Fund, God’s Grace Adoption Ministry and Hebrew Free Loan Association. 

Many adoption grants are earmarked for specific types of adoptions.  Some grants are for older children, special needs children, sibling groups, certain religions or children from certain countries.  Be sure to search for a grant that fits the description of the particular child that you are adopting.  Keep in mind that even for grants that apply to the general population, priority is often given to families who are adopting hard-to-place children.

Once you have identified grants to apply for, you will need to begin the application process.  The adoption grant application process can be just as detailed as the adoption process itself.  Be prepared to provide information on the child that you are adopting.  The more information you have on the child, the better.  If you can send photos or a personal story, it will make your application more personal and show that you are serious about the adoption process.

You will also be asked to provide information on your home life and financial situation.  Questions can revolve around your family’s religion, home habits and income and expenses.  Be prepared to answer these questions thoroughly and honestly and to provide any supporting documentation that is requested.  Some organizations will also require a background check.

There is intense competition for adoption grants, but it is worth taking the time and effort to apply for grants that you qualify for.  Receiving an adoption grant can greatly decrease the financial burden of adoption.