OLDER/SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAM

This is a unique program to bring older children and children with special needs together with permanent families. Occasionally an older or special needs child is voluntarily placed for adoption through The Maine Children's Home, but most often these children are already in the custody of The Department of Human Services waiting for permanent homes.

The Maine Children's Home works with The Department of Human Services to prepare and educate qualified families who make that special commitment to adopting an older/special needs child. We also assist each family in working with the Department of Human Services towards the placement of a child in their home either through their foster to adopt process or simply via their adoption program. The children available through this program are primarily age four and above often with challenging emotional/behavioral, developmental, or medical needs. The fees for this program are minimal to none in recognition of the need to find permanent families for each child.

The Older/Special Needs program adoption process through The Maine Children's Home consists of the following steps:

• Orientation to agency's services
  
• Application to the adoption program
  
• Educational Study Group participation (through DHS)
  
• Written Home Study and Home Study updates as needed
  
• Pre-Placement Coordination
  
• Post-Placement Supervision
  
• Finalization of the adoption is generally six months after placement
  
• Post Adoption Services

Interested in our Adoption Services? Contact Us Here.