AVAILABLE RESOURCES TO HELP DEFRAY
AND COVER THE EXPENSE
OF ADOPTION
The owner of this site offer this site FREE as a service to those pursuing adoption.
We understand your reasoning for visiting this page. You are one of many. The fees that are
being asked for adoption of homeless children are prohibiting many families from coming
forward, because they cannot afford to pay them. We know this to be true because of this
financial assistance page and all the people who visit and contact us, wishing to adopt.
We also know that many of those families understand that they are often taking on a tre-
mendous challenge to raise children who have medical and emotional needs.
Most families coming forward for special needs children do so out of love and a spiritual
commitment to these children.It happens when they see a child that needs a home,and know
that they can offer their love. Most are not wealthy, and often are already raising children.
Many have given up their life savings and incurred debt in order to adopt these children.
We have noticed that our page is attached to many adoption agency websites as a resource
solution for adoption expenses. We feel strongly in advising the reader that there is no
grant, loan, or donation that will provide a solution when it comes to the skyrocketing
costs associated with adoption. We also know that many of those families understand that
they are often taking on a tremendous challenge to raise children who have medical and
emotional needs. They are very aware of the enormous responsibility and dedication it
takes, yet they are totally committed to that challenge. Adoption fees and expenses have
prevented or delayed many children from coming into loving homes.
"How can we measure the effect that this has on the mental, physical, emotional and
spiritual developement of children?"
There must be many more that are languishing in wait, who will never be adopted.....
A program to help qualified families adopt African American newborns, children, and sibling groups.
A Heart of Mercy [Grants for families adopting from Kazakhstan]
The Kazakhstan division of His Kids Too! and provides humanitarial aid to the orphans, widows, and poor of Kazakhstan as well as adoption grants to qualified families.
Ava's Hope
Married couple who is seeking to adopt a child from overseas but can't afford to do so for any reason is eligible to apply to become a Ava's Hope Family.
A Child's Desire
Mission Statement: A Child’s Desire, Inc. is committed to easing the financial burden of the adoption and post-adoption processes through fundraising efforts. By generating adoption grants, it will underwrite adoption agencies'fees or adoption facilitators'fees. [* Grants are given directly to non-profit adoption agencies and ACD prefers to sponsor older children.]
Adoption Home Studies and Services, Inc [Grants available for prospective parents working through this agency]
AHS has created a International Adoption Grant Program for clients working within their agency. They will reduce some of the agency’s adoption fees. These fees can be related to the home study, to an international adoption situation or post placement visits.
Americans Adopting Orphans
Each quarter the Board of Advisors will meet to recommend that individual families receive grants to help them with their adoption
Bright Futures Foundation
The Bright Futures Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) foundation that endeavors to help internationally orphaned/abandoned children find forever families. Bright Futures fundraises nationally to reduce the fees necessary to adopt.
Brittany's Hope Foundation
Brittany’s Hope was created in the spring of 1999 and does not offer grants directly to families in the process of adopting a child. However, they place money on waiting children submitted to us by placing agencies in the hopes of getting potential families interested in the child. If you are interested in adopting a waiting child with special needs, you might want to ask your agency to submit the child for consideration in receiving grants from this organization.
Cadman Foundation
A 501(c)(3) organization, the foundation was created to help defray the cost of international adoption through grants and fund-raising opportunities. Applicants must have a completed and approved home study by a qualified agency or professional licensed in the state in which they reside before they can apply for a grant.
Carolines Promise [Grants for North Carolina residents]
The Carolines Hope Organization's goal is to provide $3,000 - $5,000 grants throughout the year to Christian couples who are in the adoption process.Currently accepting applications from couples who live in North Carolina. As the Lord provides they hope to offer grants to couples who live throughout the United
Chance for a Child
[This site is temporarily down]
A Chance for a Child is a not for profit organziation created to provide financial assistance to adopting families or to children waiting to be adopted, both domestically and internationally.
Chances by Choice
Chances by Choice provides grants, whenever funds are available, to people who adopt an internationally born child with HIV or AIDS. While they are not a placement agency, they will assist in identifying HIV/AIDS positive children available for adoption and will link the prospective parents with an agency for placement.
Child Welfare League Of America
Foundation offers adoption resources and advocacy for prospective adoptive families.
China Care Foundation [Grants for China sp needs and older placement adoptions]
Financial Aid for Adopting Families adopting special needs or older children (5 years or older) form China.
Christian Adoption Resources Inc
Prospective adoptive couples may apply for a grant after they have an approved home-assessment by a licensed adoption agency. Their adoption agency/attorney must provide a letter of recommendation.
Christian World Adoptions
[Grants for families working with Christian World Adoption]
Christian World has a fund-raising project to assist qualified parents who want to adopt but need additional financial support to see the adoption through. Applicants must be registered clients with Christian World Adoption.
Cradle of Hope Special Needs Fund
[Grants for families adopting sp needs kids from Russia through Cradle of Hope Adoption Agency]
Financial assistance is available through Cradle of Hope's fund raising efforts, and is awarded based on child's special needs, region of child's orphanage, and family's financial need.
Daunte Culpepper Adoption Grant
[Grants for families adopting from the African American Adoption Agency]
African American Adoption Agency assists clients with some of the costs of the adoption process by establishing the Daunte Culpepper Adoption Grant to offset the cost of private adoption where families demonstrate need.
Dillon Adoption Agency [Grants for families adopting through Dillon Adoption Agency]
Dillon offers two funds to help families, who qualify for financial assistance, with their adoption and to help children with special needs to find a permanent family. These funds are only available to families who are adopting through Dillon International.
Lisa's Fund is used primarily for adoptions from the People's Republic of China. Grants vary according to an individual family's need.
Building Families Fund can be used to help families and/or children from our other partner countries. Average grant is $2,000, but may be less or more depending upon an individual family's need.
Embracing Children Humanitarian Organization(ECHO [Grants for families in Canada]
ECHO is a new non-profit organization located in British Columbia, Canada, that is providing financial grants to Canadian adoptive parents to assist with the cost of adoptions of children from around the world.
For This Child
[Grants for families adopting from Guatemala]
[Grants Available for Guatemalan Adoptions]
Grants between $1,000 - $4,000 are given on an as-needed basis to prospective parents who would not otherwise be able to complete an adoption.
Feng LiLi [ Apparently, Grants for Born Again Christian families Only]
Meets quarterly or on demand, when necessary to review applications.
(Request Application)
Feng LiLi
180 Laurel Avenue
Forest, IL 60045
(847) 482-0500
Fore Family Foundation
The foundation awards grants of $2,500 towards adoptive parents’ attorney or agency fees or to be placed in an educational fund for a qualified adopted child. The grants are limited to domestic adoptions of children in the foster care system, children with special needs, older children, or hard to place children.
Grants for Adoption
Grants for Adoption is a private foundation that is awaiting nonprofit status.
Gift of Adoption Fund
Applicants must have a completed and approved homestudy by a qualified agency or professional licensed in the state in which they reside before they can apply for a grant. Average grants awarded range between
God's Grace Adoption Ministry
A non-profit organization helping adoptive parents overcome the financial burden of adopting children. It is not an adoption agency, but rather works in cooperation with the agency to assist the family with their financial needs. Depending on the individual family needs, financial assistance is availabe by way of adoption grants and interest-free loans.
Hadassah's Hope
Hadassah's Hope exists to offer financial support for families who are overburdened with the financial cost of adopting overseas. We strive to help orphans by offering medical assistance, training opportunities and providing, as needed, for the care of orphans.
Hearts of Hope Adoption Ministry [Grants for Members of 'Real Hope Community Church']
Applicants may apply for a $1000 matching grant. You must be members of Real Hope Community Church.
Must have a completed home study from a licensed adoption agency. Must complete the application process, which will help determine financial need. On a case-by-case basis, they may be able to offer assistance to other applicants
Helping Kids Cope
Helping adoptive parents who are homestudy ready defray the cost of the adoption services.
HIS KIDS TOO Adoption Bank -Fundraiser
The Adoption Bank is a unique program that allows for persons adopting internationally to have their friends, relatives, coworkers, fellow church parishioners, etc., make donations into their Adoption Bank. Donations are not tax deductible
His Kids Too, Inc. [Grants for families adopting from Ukraine, Russia and Albania]
A Christian nonprofit international humanitarian aide organization that provides aide to orphans and widows
in several countries - primary focus is Ukraine, Russia,and Albania. For parent(s) adopting international children, His Kids Too! provides an adoption grant of up to $2,000 for one child, and up to $4,000 for 2 children. Grants are paid directly to the agency or facilitation service (for independent adoptions, grants approved on a case-by-case basis.)
Holt's Special Needs Adoption Fund (SNAF) [Grants for families adopting through Holt International]
This fund assists families adopting through the HOLT Agency who need additional financial support in order to adopt a waiting child. They consider requests for this assistance on a case-by-case basis at time of assignment. After being matched with a special needs child, families may request assistance from the SNAF program director.
Home For Good [Grants for families adopting older and sp needs kids]
Home For Good focuses on the adoption of older children with special needs and sibling groups who have little or no hope of being adopted without their intervention. They offer resources, grants, loans and matching funds to encourage more families to adopt and to ensure the success for those who undertake adoption.
Ibsen Adoption Network
[Grants for Washington State residents]
The Ibsen Adoption Network is a private non-profit organization who's purpose is to create a network and generate funds that will provide financial assistance, education and emotional support to families adopting waiting children. There Allocation Committee meets twice a year to consider assistance requests for small grants.
International Adoption Assistance Foundation, Inc
6420 Tokeneak Trail
Mobile, AL 36695 - 2940
Contact: Donald L. Parker or Linda J. Bushy - Directors
Phone: (334) 633-4300
International Children's Adoption Resource Effort
Our board of directors will review all requests and, as funding becomes available, will notify applicants who have been approved to receive our support.
IRS Tax Adoption Credit
Hope for Children Act Tax Credit:
Probably the single biggest source of funds towards an adoption is the Federal Hope for Children Act which provides a substantial adoption tax credit. Beginning with tax year 2004, adoptive parents may be eligible to take a tax credit of up to $10,390 for each adopted child. A single adoptive parent can take the credit, but if married, the parents must file jointly in order to take it. Virtually all expenses related to the adoption can be applied such as agency fees, attorney’s fees and travel expenses, including hotels and meals while away from home. The tax credit applies to expenses relating to adopting either a healthy or a special needs child, either domestically or internationally.
Life International
Helps remove financial roadblocks by offering 'matching grants' ($1,000-$4,000) which encourage the adopting couple's church family to financially and prayerfully support the adoption. Dollar for dollar matching grants act as catalysts in raising funds and involving local church creates a lifelong bond between the church family and the adopted child. Life International also offers 'Interest-free loans'.
Lifetime Adoption Foundation
Lifetime Adoption Foundation provides adoption grants for qualified families which may be applied toward domestic adoptions of African American newborns and children, siblings groups of all races, special needs and older children through Lifetime Adoption Center via their domestic adoption program.
Los Ninos International Adoption Center
[Grants for families adopting through Los Ninos]
Los Ninos International Adoption Center has a subsidy grant program available to clients who qualify for financial assistance with their adoption. The grant subsidy is only available to families who are adopting through this agency.
Love Knows No Borders
LKNB was founded in 2000 in an effort to assist with the costs of domestic and international adopiton. LKNB is an organization that believes that financial concerns need not serve as an obstacle to individuals and couples willing to open their hearts to a child through adoption.
Miracle Moms [Grants for families adopting from Cincinnati, OH]
Miracle Moms was formed in 1990 by members of an infertility support group. Grant preference is given to those applicants from the Cincinnati, tri-state area. Although they invite apps from all the states, they have always gotten local apps and they would be chosen before someone outside of the Cinti area.
North American Council for Adoptable Children [Grants for Foster-Care adoption]
If you are interested in adopting a child who is currently waiting in foster care, often not only are fees kept to a bare minimum or even waived, but many of the children will be eligible for federally-funded or state-funded adoption subsidy payments which help you meet the child's ongoing needs. In addition, some children qualify for SSI (Social Security Insurance) payments or Medicaid coverage because of their medical conditions.
Adoption Subsidy
Children with special needs may qualify for an adoption subsidy which is paid to adoptive families to help them pay for their child's need for ongoing therapies or treatment. Adoption subsidy agreements must be negotiated with the placing agency before the child's adoption is finalized.
Non-Recurring Adoption Expense Reimbursement
After families have finalized the adoption of a child with special needs from the public child welfare system, they may be able to apply for reimbursement of expenses they paid related to the adoption, which may include home study fees, travel expenses to meet the child, attorney fees, etc. Each state sets a maximum cap which cannot exceed $2,000 per adoption.
One World Adoption Fund
One World makes a limited number of grants to people adopting internationally only. This is a small organization which spends the year fundraising and then awards a few grants at the end of each year (around November). The number and size of grants depends upon the success of fundraising that year.
Open Arms Children Charities
Open Arms awards grants to adoptive families on a quarterly basis: March 15, June 15, September 15 and December 15 of each year. The grants are open to all adoptive parents with an approved home study, regardless of whether they are adopting domestically or internationally. The amount of the award depends upon the number of applications received, as well as donations and fundraisers. There is a $10 application fee.
Our Chinese Daughters Foundation, Inc. [Grants for singles adoption mothers]
A non-profit funding agency dedicated to supporting single mothers who have adopted daughters from China. Established in 1995, Our Chinese Daughters Foundation desires to award grants and funds.
Promise The Children
Promise Children awards grants to families that are working with an agency/faciliator that is approved by PTC and must have their I-171H before they can send in their application and $15 processing fee.
Reece's Rainbow
International Down Syndrome Adoption Grant Ministry and Advocacy Group
Sea of Faces Foundation
Sea of Faces is a non-profit organization recently established in September of 2004. They are currently fundraising, but soon will be offering grants to Christian married couples adopting internationally from a developing country. The grants will be available to qualified applicants with a completed home study and accepted referral of a child.
Sergey's Fund [Grants for Russian boy adoptions between 2-5 years old]
Through the generosity of Cradle of Hope supporters, we are able to offer a limited number of $2,500 to $5,000 grants to moderate income families adopting Russian boys between 2 years and 5 years of age.
Shaohannah's Hope [Grants for Christian families]
Shaohanna’s Hope provides grants to Christians adopting through a non-profit adoption agency. Funding priority will be given to families experiencing the greatest need, and those who are receiving financial help from their church. You can apply online.
Siblings Adoption Grants
Siblings Adoption offers grants for qualified families toward international adoption. Grants are $2000 per one child, $4000 for 2 children.
Syracuse University Adoption Assistance Benefits [Grants for families working for Syracuse University, NY]
Syracuse University offers adoption assistance benefits to eligible employees. These benefits include financial assistance under the University's Adoption Assistance Reimbursement Plan and time off to care for your child and help establish your new family under the Family Medical Leave Act.
Target Corporation [Grants for families that are Target employees]
Target Employees who reach a Level 3 at their jobs are entitled to apply for an adoption grant from the Target Corporation. Adoption grants are for $3,000. Their retail divisions include Target, Marshall Field's and Mervyn Department Stores.
The Boatner Family Foundation
Provides grants from $1,000 up to $10,000. Require an agency approval, a financial statement, and a formal application.
Boatner Foundation
P O Box 132272
The Woodlands, Texas 77393-2272
The Harvard Adoption Assistance Plan [Grants for Hardvard families]
The Harvard Adoption Assistance Plan helps eligible University employees defray the cost of adoption. Adoption assistance of up to $5000 will be granted for expenses directly related to the legal adoption of a child, excluding the adoption of the child of an employee's spouse or domestic partner. Financial need is not a factor. The plan is administered by the University's Office of Work and Family. Eligibilty is for all active members of the faculty, administrative and professional staff, non-bargaining unit support staff, and members of HUCTW.
The LOOC Foundation: Lives Out of China [Grants for families adoptiong girls from China]
The LOOC Foundation’s mission is to provide the financial means to fund as many adoptions of abandoned baby girls as possible from the orphanages of China.
The Shepherds Crook Ministries
The Shepherd's Crook Ministries offers financial assistance to Christian families who are led to adopt any of the children listed on our web site.
Topeka Community Foundation [Grants for Christian families from Kansas]
Grants for domestic and international adoption. Married couples and singles can apply. Must have a strong Christian Faith and preference given to childless couples. Kansas Families, or families with a Kansas connection may apply. Call or e-mail for application, as they changetheir application every quarter.
WACAP (World Association For Children and Parents) [Innovative programs to help families adopting through WACAP with the expense]
A well-established adoption agency offering financial assistance in the way of loans & grants to perspective parents that adopt through their organization.
*The Waiting Child Loan Fund - offers interest-free loans up to $4,500, repayable over 3 years for families adopting through WACAP.
*Waiting Child Fee Reduction Most waiting WACAP children are approved for a fee reduction. Varies from $500-$4,000. depending on the child's situation.
*Promise Child Program WACAP offers a program, naming specific waiting children from all their country programs that have almost all fees waived for their adoptions. These children are selected by the WACAP staff and grant money provided to WACAP pays for almost the entire expense of the child's adoption. Call WACAP and ask for a staff member working under their "Family Finders Project" regarding children available.
Wide Smiles-Children with Cleft Lip [Grants for families adopting cleft lip/palate children]
Resources and information on adopting children with cleft-lip/palate.
Adoption Network Law Center
A selection of financial services offers highly competitive loan programs designed to provide peace of mind.
A Child Waits
A Child Waits Foundation is a non-profit charitable foundation that provides low interest loans to qualified prospective parents who might otherwise not be able to adopt due to financial constraints.
APFUSA: Adoption Financing.Com
A Loan Processing Company
Adoption Financing.Com
AdoptionFinancing.com is now offering a brand new adoption financing program. International adoption loans from $10,000 to $20,000 are available through the National Bank of Canada. The interest rate is consumer prime plus three-quarters percent. You have 15 years to pay off the loan with no penalty for early payment.Fill out the application at AdoptionFinancing.com and they will work with their network of more than 30 different lenders to find the right financing for your needs.
Adoption Network Law Center
Adoption Network Law Center makes available credit based adoption loans up to $50,000 with repayment terms from 24 to 84 months. Interest rates start at 9.99% and they offer same-day decisions on loan applications.
Building Families Adoption Loan Program through Old National Bank
Our Building Families Adoption Loan Program provides assistance to cover adoption expenses at the best rates and terms available.
Child Adoption Funds
Assists families in establishing an individualized "Family Foundation" that can provide tax deductions to those who contribute.
Credit Based Loans
Adoption Network Law Center offers credit-based loans featuring 24 to 84 month terms, as well as interest-free 90 Days Same as Cash on all loans, and usually get application approved during the same day. There is no cost or obligation to submit a loan application, AND no penalty if you decide to pay off the loan early.
Fifth Third Adoption Financing
Help families through their international adoption. This program applies to families living in Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, Illinois, Florida (Naples), and Tennessee (Franklin).
First Union Bank Adoption Loan Program
The First Union Band offers an adoption-financing loan program that supplements employer provided adoption assistance or helps those who do not have this benefit. Available to prospective adoptive families living in CT, DE, FL, GA, MD, NC, NJ, NY or VA. Recommended by an adoptive family who says, "We found the people at First Union to be prompt, friendly, and helpful, and the loan rate was as it was advertised." Contact: Rick Woo or Debbie Morocco at (301) 657-5863 or 1-888-314-5437
Funds For Families
West Michigan Community Bank and Adoption Associates, Inc. are bringing adoption within your reach by offering a loan that will help you complete your family. The Funds For Families Loan was created to assist families who have the desire to adopt, but may not have the initial funds it takes to pay the fees involved in adoption. The Funds For Families Loan helps clients of Adoption Associates, Inc. bridge the gap between the time funds are needed during the adoption process and the time it takes to receive your federal tax credit/refund for adoption expenses.
Hebrew Free Loan Association
Interest-free loans are available to Jewish adults in San Franciso, the East Bay, South Bay, and Sacramento, CA who wish to adopt children Internationally or Domestically. A single person or couple, after demonstrating additional need, may borrow up to $10,000 toward the expenses incurred for the adoption of a child.
Funds4Families
Through American Home Loans offer a variety of loan programs such as Dept Consolidation, Home Equity Line of Credit, Home Improvement and Refinancing.
Home Equity Loan or Refinancing
For Homeowners, there are many options available with some loan programs allowing for borrowing up to 125% of your home loan value. Consult your tax advisor regarding the possible tax benefits of this loan option. You can compare rates available with your local banks and mortgage brokers.
IVF Finance Plan
IVF Financing is a loan program offered through Medical Business Solutions. Medical Business Solutions offers unsecured adoption loans, as well as home equity loans. Although the IVF program was originally tailored to finance infertility and other medical treatments, they have expanded to include adoption.
Jewish Free Loan Association
Provides interest-free loans for adoption and in vitro fertilizaton.
Lifetime Adoption Financing Loan
Adoption Financing Program to Help Families Move Closer to a Successful Adoption.
MBNA
MBNA Gold Option is a term line of credit up to $25,000 with repayment terms from 36 to 72 months. The variable interest rate is based upon credit history and will range from a minimum of 9.24% to a high of 25.24%
One Family Foundation/Gadbois Family Fund
This organization has in the past offered adoption grants and loans. Their web site says that their grant program is closed for 2004. It is not clear whether they intend to re-open their grant program in 2005 or at any time in the future.
Oxford Adoption Foundation
Oxford offers no interest or low interest loans for both domestic and international adoptions, based upon financial need. Oxford will generally lend up to $5,000 per child, up to a maximum of $10,000. The typical loan terms are 0% interest for the first three years, 3% interest for the next three years, and 6% interest for the final three years, for a maximum loan term of nine years.
The Abba Fund [Grants for Christian families]
The Abba Fund helps unite families through interest-free, covenant loans for adoption.
The National Adoption Foundation Loan Program
The National Adoption Foundation through MBNA helps adoptive parents and prospective adoptive families with costs of adopting and raising a child by providing financial support, information and services. This organization has established a $9 million revolving loan bank to provide unsecured loans to adoptive
US Waiting Child Fund
The U S Waiting Child Loan Program’s goal is to make it possible for many children waiting in US foster care to be placed with permanent families. The maximum loan available is $4,000, with a maximum term for re-payment of three years.
WACAP
Interest-free loans are available to those in need adopting a waiting child through the WACAP Adoption Agency on case by case basis to help defray the costs of an adoption through this agency. (See above under grants for more information)
Adoption Tax Credit
Tax Benefits For Adoption (guideline pamphlet)
American Grants and Loans Directory
This publication contains more than 1500 financial programs, subsidies,
scholarship, grants and loans offered by the US federal government.
It also includes over 700 financing programs available by foundations
across the United States.
Child Adoption Funds
CAF is not an adoption agency, but do help adoptive parents throughout the USA who are currently working with adoption agencies to set up a 'family foundation'. Once in place, the 'family foundation' will help adoptive parents pay for their adoption expenses through the new, tax-exempt foundation. The National Heritage Foundation is the entity that will hold your investment, and the Child Adoption Funds Organization is the facilitator of the process.
Capital One
Offering a credit card with a limit of up to $20,000 at a fixed rate of 9.9% over the long term (not just an introductory rate).
Christian Advocates for Adoption (CAFA)
Funding adoption through CAFA is not by means of a grant, loan, or gift from this ministry, but by inviting others to participate with you financially in this blessed event. Scripture makes clear that it is more blessed to give than receive (Acts 20:35) and that when we give and sow we will in turn reap and be blessed (Luke 6:38; Gal. 6:7). By asking for support for your adoption, you are opening a door of opportunity to others to participate in the cause of the fatherless. Working together will help you to raise up to one half of the cost of your adoption. Any funds raised beyond the goal will be used to further the ministry of CAFA and assist other orphans in finding loving Christian families.
Creative Ways to Finance International Adoptions
Lots of great ideas on adoption resources.
Credit Card Application center
Credit Card Application Center- http://www.credit-card-applications-center.com
A comprehensive credit card center that you can easily compare different credit cards.
Dependency Exemption
Adoptive parents may take the same dependency exemption on their income taxes for their adopted children, and children placed with them for adoption but not yet finalized, as they would for their biological children. The exemption reduces their taxable income. The amount of the dependent exemption is adjusted annually to reflect the cost of living. Remember, families must provide more than half of their children's support to list them as exemptions.
Employer Adoption Benefits
Many companies offer adoption benefits to their employees which may range from financial assistance to parental leave. Some employers will help with costs by reimbursing expenses with a cash benefit of up to several thousand dollars.
How To Make Adoption An Affordable Option
A free, comprehensive booklet, published by the National Endowment for Financial Education.
Military Adoption Reimbursement Program
Adopting couples or singles can receive up to $2.000. reimbursement on adoption expenses for one child or a maximum amount of $5,000. for siblings or two children whether adopting a healthy infant, a waiting child, or a child from abroad. Travel costs, foreign or domestic, are not covered. Reimbursement is made ONLY after the adoption is finalized and only if the adoption was done through a state adoption agency or a non-profit private agency. Fees that can be reimbursed include adoption fees; placement fees, including fees for birth parent couseling; legal fees and court costs; and medical expenses, including hospital expenses of the biological mother and her newborn infant.
NACAC's Adoption Subsidy
NACAC's Adoption Subsidy Resource Center lists state by state adoption subsidies.
National Heritage Foundation
A purpose of The National Heritage Foundation is to promote people to people projects by setting up “Foundations at NHF” (FANHFs) in the area of charitable activities. One of their main objectives is to popularize the use of Foundations and make them accessible to everyone, regardless of income level. A Foundation at NHF is inexpensive to start and inexpensive to operate.
Slavic Humanitarian Association Inc. (SHA)
All families adopting from Russia make donations in cash to the orphanage through their agency.
If their agency does not have a Tax Exempt status and does not make special arrangements for their families to make that donation tax deductible, families cannot deduct this money in taxes. SHA is a tax-exempt public service organizationthat distributes its donations to Russian Dept. Of Education, orphanages, hospitals, etc. If you make your donation through SHA, it becomes tax deductible.
The Adoption Guide
Has information about where to look for help, what subsidies are available, and where loans and grants may be found.
Dave Thomas Foundation For Adoption
Founded in 1992, by Dave Thomas, founder of Wendy's Old Fashioned Hamburger Restaurants.
The National Adoption Center has conducted surveys of public and private employers throughout the United States to compile the list that follows. Included are governmental agencies, Fortune 500 and 1000 companies, Working Mother magazineęs 100 Best Companies for Working Mothers, Business Weekęs most family-friendly companies, and a wide range of businesses and corporations representing diverse industries. The list is updated as new information is received.
Many companies offer adoption benefits to their employees which may range from financial assistance to parental leave. A list of companies who provide adoption benefits has been compiled HERE
If your workplace has adoption benefits and is not listed, or if you are an employer and would like t offer adoption benefits please call 1-877-777-4222.
Nonrecurring Adoption Expenses-The federal government allocates funds to states to reimburse fees paid by adoptive families of children with special needs. States choose whether to accept the funds, and can decide which adoptions are eligible for reimbursement. International adoptions are eligible in some states; domestic adoptions are eligible in every state.
How do I apply? Each state has specific rules about when and how to apply for reimbursement and/or subsidies. In some states, you must apply before your adoption is finalized. For China and Russia adoptions, this means you must apply prior to traveling.
What adoptions qualify? Any waiting child from the United States is potentially eligible for these reimbursements, as well as for monthly subsidies for the child’s ongoing needs. For families who are adopting domestically, ask your case worker for subsidy information. In some states, children with special needs adopted internationally are also eligible for reimbursements. How do I make contact? States distribute these funds at their discretion. Not every child is guaranteed to receive funds. There are specific requirements for paperwork, deadlines and eligibility.
To find the contact information in your state, click on your state below
| State | Which Adoptions Qualify? | Subsidy Amount |
| Alabama | Domestic & International | Up to $1,000 per child |
| Alaska | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Arizona | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $1,500 per child |
| Arkansas | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $1,500 per child |
| California | Domestic adoption only | Up to $400 per child |
| Colorado | Domestic adoption only | Up to $800 per child |
| Connecticut | Domestic adoption only | Up to $750 per child |
| Delaware | Not available | None |
| District of Columbia | Domestic adoption only | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Florida | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $1,000 per child |
| Georgia | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Hawaii | Domestic & International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Idaho | Domestic & International | UP to $2,000 per child |
| Illinois | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $1,500 per child |
| Indiana | Domestic & International | Up to $1,500 per child |
| Iowa | Domestic & International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Kansas | Domestic & International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Kentucky | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $1,000 per child |
| Louisiana | Domestic adoption only | Up to $1,000 per child |
| Maine | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Maryland | Domestic & International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Massachusetts | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $400 per child |
| Michigan | Domestic & International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Minnesota | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Mississippi | Domestic & International | Up to $1,000 per child |
| Missouri | Domestic adoption only | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Montana | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Nebraska | Domestic & International | Up to $1,500 per child |
| Nevada | Domestic adoption only | Up to $250 per child |
| New Hampshire | Domestic & International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| New Jersey | Domestic adoption only | Up to $2,000 per child |
| New Mexico | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| New York | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| North Carolina | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| North Dakota | Domestic & International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Ohio | Domestic & International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Oklahoma | Domestic & International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Oregon | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Pennsylvania | Domestic adoption only | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Rhode Island | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $400 per child |
| South Carolina | Domestic & International | Up to $250 per child |
| South Dakota | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $1,500 per child |
| Tennessee | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $1,500 per child |
| Texas | Domestic & International | Up to $1,500 per child |
| Utah | Domestic adoption only | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Vermont | Domestic & International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Virginia | Domestic & International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Washington | Domestic adoption only | Up to $1,500 per child |
| West Virginia | Domestic & possibly International | Up to $1,000 per child |
| Wisconsin | Domestic & International | Up to $2,000 per child |
| Wyoming | Domestic & International | Up to $2,000 per child |
ABS Travel
This site is specifically for those that need travel assistance, and are adopting or are interested in adoptions in Central America and South America.
Adoption Travel.Com
Your resource for international adoption travel planning.
AFC Travel
AFC is a travel agency arranging group travel for international adoptions. They work with 20 airlines to offer prices that they say are 10% - 50% off of the published fares.
Airline Consolidator
An online travel agency specializing in discount international airline tickets, offering consolidator fares for flights originating in the USA to many international locations in Africa, Asia, Central and South America, Europe, the Middle East, South Pacific and the Indian subcontient. Airline Consolidator has over 8,000 different discounted domestic and international airfares listed in their database from over 50 different Airlines to chose from.
Open Door
Some families find they cannot travel to complete the adoption. An Open Door has made arrangements for an Adoption Escort Service to handle the in-country travel for the adoptive family. The child will be brought to the airport nearest your home. This costs very little (if any) more than if 2 people (adoptive mother and father) had traveled.
British Airways
Offers 65% discount for adults and the adopted child is 1/2 off the discounted fare.
Federal Travel
Federal Travel Adoption Travel Services is owned by adoptive parents who say they can provide the lowest possible air fares to Central and South America, Russia, Europe, China, Asia, Africa, India and the World. They say they can waive the fare rules that make travel complicated. They arrange ticket delivery in 24 hours or less. They offer special adoptive family discounts.
Fellowship Travel International
Fellowship Travel International has assisted in the adoption of children from all over the world. Providing flexible travel arrangements to meet the specialized needs of this type of travel is a necessity.
Foreign Adoption Escort Services
A dedicated agent will assist prospective parents who are adopting a child abroad. The agent will help oversee all of the logistical and travel issues that may arise, and help facilitate the transition from the adoptive country back to the home county.
Frequent Flyer Miles
If you know people who do a lot of traveling, they are likely to have substantial accounts of frequent flyer miles. People who are not willing or able to give cash may be more willing to donate miles. These can significantly reduce your travel expenses if you are careful in selecting the appropriate airlines to match the donated miles.
Go Russia
Go to Russia is a travel agency specializing in travel and tours to Russia and Eastern Europe. They also have a program for parents adopting from Russia and former Eastern Block countries where they can provide discounted airfare and hotel reservations.
Lotus Travel
A consolidor of airline tickets with routes to China, SE Asia, Eastern Europe and beyond. Lotus Travel has specialized in adoption travel since 1995 and has successfully served well over 15,000 adoptive families.
Low Ticket
Offers up to 60% off airfaires and provides assistance for adoption travel arrangements.
Miles For Kids Program
The Miles For Kids program is designed to provide air fare for children in need of medical treatment, or to fulfill the wish of an ill child. To be considered, candidates must be a dependant child not exceeding 23 years of age, and the family must be recommended by a social worker at a medical institution, a charitable organization, or a church. There are other criteria which will have to be met including a signed letter from the child's physician stating the purpose for the flight, medical background and current medical condition including if the child is medically stable to fly and if there is any special assistance needed on the flight.
Northwest Airlines Introduces Special Delivery
Significant fare discounts (65% off their full adult fares for families adopting internationally.) Adoptions.
Northwest Adoption Aid Escort
Contact information:
NW Adoption Aid Escorting program is made up of mainly airline employees (almost all Northwest
Airlines) and family members with airline travel benefits who volunteer to
escort in order to help make the adoption process easier for families. They
are "not a business" nor associated with any adoption agency.They travel both internationallythey and
domestically to unite families with their children. Often the overseas agency people bring the babies
into the U.S. port most convenient to their personal destinations. They meet
them as they finish with immigration and customs and then take the children
on to the waiting families wherever they are in the U.S. They also carry babies
born in the U.S. to new families across the country. Northwest Airlines makes the most affordable travel possible for them. Ask your adoption agency for their services.
Geri Mages
Volunteer Airline Escort
952-492-3421
612-251-3421
Preston Group Adoption Air Fare Program
An Adoption Air Fare has been put together by The Preston Group, an established travel agency in Salt Lake City, Utah. They specialize in saving money for last minute travel arrangements which normally can be very costly. Just mention it is for 'adoption related matters'. Ask for Debb, Traci, or Jill for assistance at:
1(800)FLY-4KIDS (359-4543).
Servant Travel
Servant Travel work withs over 40 carriers and can offer special airfares to adoptive parents. They can also waive many of the restrictions usually placed on the least expensive tickets offered by airlines.
Ties Program
A travel program for adoptive families visiting their child's country of birth to see the sights, experience the culture and reconnect with significant people and places related to their adoption. Journeys are currently offered to Korea, China, India, Chile, Peru, Paraguay, and Guatemala. We look forward to opening a program to Romania in 2004. Other programs will open based on interest from
adoptive families.
United Airlines and Lufthansa Airlines
United and Lufthansa (both owned by the same parent company) offer special international adoption fares for travel from the U.S. to Asia, Africa, Australia, Europe, the Middle East, Central and South America. These fares are open to the adoptive parents, the adoptive child as well as friends or family members assisting with the adoption process.
Wings os Angels
A non-profit group of former airline employee's they can escort your child home free of charge.(make sure the escort service is available through your agency) If you are interested in the services of "Wings of Angels", please call 1-800-214-4669
A Child's Desire
A Family's Desire; Fundraising for Adoption
Although A Child's Desire Organization only offer adoption grants to non-profit adoption agencies, they have developed a great fundraiser, which can be used by any adopting families to be used towards any of their adoption related expenses.
The Campbell family site has created a way to raise funds to adopt their
children and they want to share this with other loving families that have a
deep desire to adopt.
A Mother's Love
Valerie Gagnon is currently helping people all across the country through fundraising to defray their adoption and infertility costs.
Anna Bears Adoption Fundraising
The owners of this site came up with the idea to sell teddy bears with a logo that says "I support adoption" and a picture of a child.
Candle Fundraising
One of our top candle fundraising lines is manufactured in the United States by Botika Candles. Three styles of candles including a great new wickless candle. You sell from free brochures and order forms we provide. You will make 50% profit on your candle sale and can even qualify for free shipping.
Christian Advocates For Adoption (CAFA)
Funding your adoption through CAFA is NOT by means of a grant, gift or loan from this ministry, but by inviting others to participate with you in this blessed event. By asking for support for your adoption, you are opening a door of opportunity to others to participate in the cause of the fatherless.
Domino's Fund Raising Cards
People are always looking for free pizza coupons. This program provides the opportunity to sell cards offering free Domino's pizza coupons to supporters and making very high profits selling them. They are very easy to sell. After all, who would not want a free pizza coupon?
An adoption fundraiser that does not require any upfront money you should consider holding flower fundraisers either in the spring or fall. The flower bulb program and planting flowers is very symbolic to new life. The bulbs are competitively priced and offer 50% profit on each and every sale you make. They provide free brochures and order forms you use to pre sell with and you order only what you have sold.
Easy Fundraising Ideas.Com
Easy Fundraising Ideas offers a great selection of the best fundraising products and ideas for groups such as school fundraising, church fundraisers , charity fund raising and many others.
Gooseberry Patch
Gooseberry Patch is an online gift store with a country flair. While not specifically tailored to adoptive parents, Gooseberry Patch offers a fundraising program where they state you can earn up to 58% profit on the products you sell. The fundraising catalog includes cookbooks, calendars and other gift items, and there are no minimum order requirements.
Invisible Rebate Program
The program works by setting each family up with their own web-site at no cost. You then solicit people to visit your web site and purchase from three personal care, nutrition and skin care product lines supplied by the program. On a monthly basis, you will receive a check for 40% of the sales originating on your web site (excluding shipping & handling). There are no up-front costs and your work is limited to getting people to visit the web site and purchase products.
Kingdom Kids Adoption Ministires
KK believe that a lack of finances shouldn't prevent a child from being part of a loving family. Their website has links to pages that explain the adoption fundraising/grant program offered by Kingdom Kids.
Little Light Of Mine Candle Co
Little Light of Mine Candle Co. makes the cleanest burning, best fragranced soy candles available. It began as a business through a family that has a heart for orphans, and initially wanted to raise money to help pay for their two adoptions. They donate 10% of all their profits to orphan relief.
The Mall
A number of people have set up a small business from their homes with the proceeds going into the adoption account. These tend to be in the hand-craft category. Take a close look at for some examples of current businesses.
Yahoo Fundraising for Adoption Group
This is a group for members that are adopting to help each other come up with ideas to finance an adoption. Please consider joining our group while we are all going through this journey together!
Yahoo Group For Adoption Fundraising
Support group for sharing fundraising ideas with other adoptive and prospective adoptive parents. Domestic and International both welcome.
Other Ideas:
1] Look into Home Equity Loans or Refinance.
2] Borrow from family members - Although there are many different financial options, many will require that you have your adoption completed before reimbursement. Family members could be asked to assist financially in this interim.
3] Borrow from a 401(k) or Retirement Account - Consult your tax advisor or financial planner regarding the tax benefits of this loan option and how it will affect your future retirement finances.
4] Borrow from a Life Insurance Policy - Cash value life insurance policies often allow you to borrow against the policy. Consult your insurance agent as to whether or not this option is available to you.
5] Contact Airlines requesting a reduced rate or waiver of fees to get your child - See above Airlines that offer discounted air fare for adoptions.
6] Educational Credits - Some agencies/attorneys offer an educational credit toward your fees.
7] Corporate Benefits - Some corporate employers provide an adoption incentive, in the way of a cash payment toward your adoption fees. Visit Adoption Quest at: http://adoption.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite for a list of participating employers.
8] Bake Sales - Some people have arranged bake sales, often in conjunction with their local church.
9] Fundraising Dinners or Breakfasts -
For those with a culinary flair, some parents have organized dinners or breakfasts which people buy “tickets” to attend. I have read of everything from backyard barbecues to elegant multi-course gourmet dinners. Some people have even been successful in recruiting restaurants or food markets to donate the food necessary for the event so that the out of pocket cost to hold the event is minimal and the entire “ticket” price can be put towards adoption expenses.
10] Church Benefits -
Churches are wonderful places to fundraise. Some people have used their church hall for free or for a nominal fee to hold a fundraiser. I have read of churches donating hot dogs and hamburgers for a “pay to attend” cook-out, with all proceeds going to the adoptive family. I have also read of pancake breakfasts where church members volunteer to bring pancake mix, coffee, and other supplies and then volunteer to do the cooking – again, all proceeds benefiting the adoptive family.
11] Car Washes -
Hey, it works for high school cheerleaders and football teams. Get a bunch of volunteers together and get washing.
12] Raffles -
Many people have had success with raffles, usually in conjunction with a local business. Find an item to raffle (or have one donated if you can), and talk to local businesses about selling tickets for the raffle. Make sure it is clear that the raffle will help with adoption expenses.
13] Craft Sales -
If you are crafty, make some crafts and start selling them. If you aren’t crafty, but know someone who is, ask them to help you. I have read of people having success at this by offering their crafts at church fairs or at local craft fairs.