Toll Free 1-888-430-3055
324 W. Superior St.
Suite 400
Duluth, MN 55802
Office (218) 733-3000
Fax (218) 733-3079
adoption
Birthparents
North Homes adoption counselors are with you every step of the way. We will:
• Assist you with difficult decisions regarding your child's future
• Provide nonjudgmental information about your options
• Answer your questions about the adoption process
• Provide information about "open adoption"
• Provide information about health, nutrition and health insurance
• Make sure your basic living needs are being met
• Assist you in choosing an adoptive family for your child
• Arrange meetings with potential adoptive families
• Make arrangements for contact before, during and after the birth of your child
• Continue to be involved with you after placement
This relationship is a lifetime commitment between North Homes, a birthparent, a child, and an adoptive parent(s).
Who are the children?
North Homes Adoption Services place children ages 0-17. Though we do place infants, the majority of our adoptive placements are Minnesota Waiting Children. These are children who are under the guardianship of the State of Minnesota and are in need of a permanent loving home.
Who may be adoptive parents?
North Homes is looking for people who:
• Are willing to commit fully to the joys and challenges of parenting
• Are couples, single, married, childless or already parenting
• Own or rent their home
• Are financially stable
• Have a sense of humor
• Have a flexible, yet accountable lifestyle
• Have a strong support system
• Have a willingness to learn
How to start the adoption process?
• Contact North Homes Adoption Unit for more information
• Attend an orientation and pre-adoption training
• Begin the application process
• Meet your adoption social worker
• Have a homestudy completed (This will include criminal background checks, personal references, and a chemical use history.)
• Wait for a wonderful child to join your family!
How much will the adoption cost?
Though there is a cost to adopt an infant, there are many children available through the Minnesota Waiting Child Program at little or no cost to the family. In addition, most Minnesota Waiting Children also qualify for adoption assistance. This monthly stipend remains with the child until age 18 or until high school graduation.
How North Homes Children and Family Services will support your adoptive placement:
• Adoption support groups and activities for the entire family
• Support group for teens in an adoptive family
• Library of informational books and DVD's
• Access to statewide support services (MNAdopt)
• Mentoring adoptive parents
• 24/7 access to adoption parent specialists
• CTSS in-home family counseling and support
• Chemical dependency treatment for teens
• ITASKIN stabilization center for times of crisis
• Mental health diagnostic assessments
• Psychiatric med management
• Out-patient mental health services
• Fetal alcohol assessments
• A team approach to problem solving!
