The Foster/Adopt Process

Interested in learning more about our foster care to adoption program? Join us for a virtual informational orientation held every first Saturday of the month from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, and every second Tuesday of the month from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Email kids@familybuilders.org to register.

We are licensed to work with families who are within a two hour radius of Oakland.

All services are free of charge to families and are available in English and Spanish.

The Training Process

Adoption SF serves children who come from a variety of challenging backgrounds. Our training sessions give you insight into the complexities of early trauma as well as new ways of helping children heal and thrive.

The 24-hour training is delivered in a series of Saturday and evening sessions.

Confidentiality

We understand that during the home study process you will trust us with sensitive information, and we guard that information carefully. Confidentiality is a top priority. In addition, Federal Law is very specific about confidentiality for both your family and the children with whom we work.

How much does the process cost?

Adoption SF provides its services free of charge. You will be asked to pay for fingerprinting, CPR classes, and any necessary water safety classes, but some of these expenses may be reimbursable after the adoption is finalized.

Adoption SF also provides a monthly stipend while the child is in foster care in your home. After the adoption is finalized, the Adoption Assistance Program (AAP) helps with ongoing assistance until the child is 18. Medi-Cal is also provided while the child is placed with you.

Milestones in the Foster/Adopt Process

Call Adoption SF
Attend orientation
Fill out the Family Fact Sheet
Personal interview
Training program
Home study interviews (4-6 months)
Match with a waiting child
Visitation with child
Child placed in home as foster child
Adoption process begins
Negotiation of adoption
Assistance Program financial aid
Finalization of adoption