Foster Care Adoption -
Frequently Asked Questions
Locations | Experts | How You Can Help This Program
Where do I call for more information?
In Omaha call 933-0377, or outside of Omaha call (877) 283-4168.
What are the ages of the children needing homes?
The children currently available range in age from 8-17, with most of the children being from 10-13 years of age.
What are the special needs of the children?
The needs of the children vary. All the children
are unable to be with their biological families and, as a result,
have issues related to grief and loss. Many also
have other mild to moderate emotional problems such as depression,
attachment difficulties, or impulse control problems and will
need ongoing counseling. Some of the children also have learning
disabilities, medical problems or physical handicaps. Homes for
sibling groups of two and three children are also needed.
What are the requirements to adopt?
There are very few requirements placed on adoptive family
because different "types" of families are needed for
different types of children. The general requirements are:
- Must be at least 19 years of age.
- Can be living in or outside of Nebraska.
- May be married or single. However, unmarried adults living with a partner may not adopt.
- Families with or without other children may adopt.
- Must demonstrate emotional and financial stability.
- Must be willing to complete the homestudy and required education classes.
- Must love children, be flexible and resourceful, and have
room in your home and your heart for a child.
What is a homestudy?
In order to adopt a child in Nebraska, families must have
a homestudy completed by a licensed child-placement agency. The
homestudy is completed through a process of interviews conducted in the agency office and your home. Homestudies
include gathering social history information, personal
and employment reference checks, and background checks with the
Nebraska State Patrol, child abuse, vulnerable adult and sexual
offender registries. Homestudies also assist families in clarifying
preferences for the child they are to parent.
Homestudies to adopt state wards are done at no cost to family.
Homestudies of families wanting to adopt state wards can not
be used for infant, international or other types of adoptions.
How long does it take to adopt?
The length of time varies, but can be expected to be 2-6 months. Our children have been through so many changes
that we take great care in finding the right match between a
child and family and in making a slow transition of the child
from their current placement to an adoptive home. A child will
have to reside in your home for a minimum of six months before
the adoption can be legally finalized.
How much does it cost to adopt?
There are no fees charged to families adopting state wards.
In most cases, a financial subsidy is made available to the family
to cover the day to day expenses of parenting the child.
What resources/supports are available to adoptive parents?
For the first six months that a child is in your home, a
worker from the agency will visit your home regularly and work
closely with your family to ensure a smooth transition and strong
foundation. Individual and family counseling is usually ongoing
to address any adjustment problems within the family. Adoptive
parents are also encouraged to learn more about adoption and
the ongoing challenges through reading and participation in local
support groups/adoptive parent networks.
Financial subsidies and ongoing medical insurance (Medicaid)
are almost always also available to families.
What are the "next steps" I should take?
- Attend an orientation/informational meeting
- Complete adoption preparation and education sessions
- Complete a homestudy
- Meet the child(ren)
- Have regular, pre-placement visits to begin building relationships
- Accept placement of the child
- Receive regular support visits from the agency
- Legally finalize the adoption six months following placement
of the child
To see child profiles, click here.
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