Adoption Resources in Connecticut

In the past, adoption was stigmatized as something that happens to society's unwanted; however, with the rise in teen pregnancy, unrestorable drug addicts, and financial hardships, adoption is becoming more of a norm. With adoption being a national issue and governed by state and federal regulations, the state of Connecticut has developed a new way to connect kids with prospective families.

Last year, the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (CDCF), which serves at-risk children and families, developed a new web tool that provides guidance for those interested in adopting within the state. The site - www.ctfosteradopt.com - has gained a great deal of praise and notice for the agency responsible for safeguarding Connecticut's foster care youth.

On the website there are brochures, news bulletin and even links to legal and legislative information relevant to adoption. Information on everything from background checks to financial resources are included on the site. Simple to search, the site provides users with the ability to request more information online and features a Heart Gallery. Through a series of photographs, prospective families can see the children available for adoption. Through CDCF, those children who have been abandoned, abuse, and/or neglected can be adopted through federal and state statutory processes.

Other types of adoption such as relative placements, step parent, agency and independent adoptions can occur also; but these processes still require some court involvement and legal action. Through the state, potential foster or adoptive parents can contact KidHero, have background checks and home visits completed, assessments performed, and PRIDE training. Once approved, these people can provide care for children in the Department's custody and can ultimately adopt.

Children are often the most vulnerable victims of circumstance, but these circumstances don't have to prevent them from having fulfilling lives and the care and support of loving adults. Adoption is a wonderful way for kids to find love, hope and acceptance in a new family.