http://www.dhhr.wv.gov/bcf/Providers/Pages/Adoption.aspx
Adoption/Foster Parents
How do I become an adoptive or foster parent?
1-Register as an adoptive/foster parent Adoption.JPG
Complete the Adoptive/Foster Parent Inquiry Form online or contact Mission WV toll free at 866-CALL-MWV (225-5698).
To make updates to your information click here
2- Attend a pre-service orientation
This training discusses the responsibilities and details of becoming an adoptive or foster parent.
3- Complete a home study
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) provides home studies for those families who plan to adopt a child who is in foster care in West Virginia. Those who are planning to adopt privately or internationally must contract with a private adoption agency to obtain a home study.
A home study is a family assessment. A social worker will interview everyone in the household. References are contacted and medical reports are reviewed. A criminal investigation and a protective services background check are both performed on all adults in the home. A social worker also discusses with perspective parents the type of child that would be the best possible match for their family. All information gathered during the assessment is kept confidential.
4-Notification of approval
After completion of the assessment the family will be notified whether their home has been approved for adoptive or foster children. After approval the information will remain in the West Virginia Adoption Resource Network Family Register for six months.
How do I express interest in a specific child?
The Bureau for Children and Families maintains a photo listing of children waiting for forever families. Unfortunately, it also makes our children vulnerable to negative intrusions into their lives. Please help us to protect them. Our West Virginia children live in our communities. If you recognize any of these children or see them in our community, please respect their privacy.
I would like to BROWSE(http://www.wvdhhr.org/oss/adoption/arn/kidmenu.cfm) children available for adoption
I would like to SEARCH for children with using certain preferences
Step up to your convictions, share your life, and give one child a life worth living too. These children were carried to term then, can you come to terms with their suffering alone now?