Frequently asked questions
about adopting from foster care

Are there demographic requirements for prospective adoptive parents?

Any person at least 18 years old, regardless of marital status, is eligible for licensure. There are no income requirements; our only goal is to ensure children are placed with families that are fiscally responsible. It is not necessary to become a homeowner; your home can be a rented apartment, condominium, townhome, duplex, or mobile home (per landlord approval).

Where do prospective parents live who adopt through NOAS?

NOAS serves Ohio families who live within 90 minutes from our office in Warren (Trumbull Co.)

Does it matter that I already have children?

No. In fact, parenting or grand-parenting experience is a plus.

If both parents work outside the home can they still adopt or foster?

Yes. Many adoptive and foster parents have two-income households. As for all families with dependent children, plans for appropriate childcare are essential before placement in a home.

What children are available through NOAS for adoption?

NOAS places primarily school-aged children ages 8-17. Some children are a part of a sibling group who need to be adopted together. Most children NOAS serves have endured traumatic life experiences despite their young ages. Abuse and/or neglect have forced their permanent removal from their birth parents’ custody. Many have emotional and behavioral problems ranging from mild to severe. NOAS also serves children in counseling, and/or with disabilities.

Will we be told of the child’s past experiences?

Yes. All information that we have as an agency will be shared with you as the foster parents.

Why do children come into foster care?

There are varying reasons for why a child enters the foster care system. Some of the most common reasons are for neglect and abuse (physical and sexual). More recently with the opioid epidemic, we have seen children repeatedly coming into care because of parent’s incarceration and death.

Does NOAS make trans-racial or trans-cultural placements?

Yes. NOAS is an inclusive agency that welcomes children and families of all gender expressions, sexual orientations, and cultures. Children are matched trans racially as well as trans culturally with a wide array of licensed families.

What is the adoption process?

Your first steps in becoming an adoptive parent through NOAS are to attend an orientation and a series of education classes. Upon completion, your application will be processed by a social worker. A home study will be conducted as part of the evaluation process. A social worker will access your family unit’s background, interests, strengths, and challenges to align you with the best possible match to one of our children. Some paperwork is involved, including medical forms and income statements, and background and criminal record checks.

How long does it take to adopt a child?

The time frame varies; you may wait eight months to a year or more. Families looking to foster or adopt older children, sibling groups, or moderate to severe special needs will wait less time than families interested in very young children with mild special needs.

Do you charge fees?

No. There are no agency fees to the family. Legal fees may be incurred at the time of legalization, though many of which can be reimbursed through an adoption expense subsidy from the State of Ohio. Subsidies and Medicaid are available to help care for qualifying children.

Can foster families share or transfer a license to or from NOAS?

Yes. A signed written statement between the agencies involved and the family is required. A transfer fee will apply and depends on the length of time you have been licensed through NOAS.

What types of support do you provide?

As an adoptive parent, our staff is available to you throughout your journey. We also provide a monthly Parent Resource Group designed to bring adoptive parents together to learn from and support one another in the journey. This Resource Group is led by a staff person and offers Continuing Education credits needed to maintain your adoption license.

Why should I/We choose NOAS?

Founded in 1978, NOAS has helped facilitate the adoption process for over 1,300 children and families. Our permanency specialists and recruiters have extensive training and experience to offer you encouragement, support and resources. They will help you during the entire foster/adoption journey as well as after an adoption legalization.

For more information, please call 1-800-686-6627 ext. 126.

FAQ didn’t answer a question you have about the adoption process?

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Call the NOAS office at 800-686-6627 ext. 126