Adoption tips for military families

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. James Branch
  • 94th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. --  November is National Adoption Month, a time set aside to raise awareness about the adoption of youth from foster care. There are approximately 107,000 children and youth in the U.S. foster care system waiting for families to adopt them. Many military families have desires to expand their families and are encouraged to adopt, both domestic and internationally.

Although adoption is very rewarding, it can be a costly and lengthy process without the correct resources, says Ruthly Chery, 94th Airlift Wing Airman and Family Support administrator.

Chery was a U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class when she adopted her daughter from Haiti, now 18.

"I was stationed at Naval Station Everett, WA. when my family decided to adopt," said Chery. The process was initiated in 2004, but was not finalized until 2008."

Adoptions granted in the U.S are governed by State law. Families who adopt out of state should familiarize themselves with the Interstate Compact of the Placement of Children. Families interested in adopting a child born outside of the country must comply with the laws of their State of record, U.S. immigration law and laws of the country where the child lives.

"Adopting internationally typically takes longer than domestic adopting," said Chery. "My department supervisor had recently adopted a child from China. He was very supportive of me and offered some advice."

The cost for adoption can range from nothing, if you adopt from the foster care system and use a public agency, to more than $40,000 without an agency. A three month home study must also be done.

"Make sure the adoption is done through a reputable adoption service provider," said Chery. "Generally, your State department will have a list of adoption service providers, lawyers and doctors for the area you are adopting from."

Failure to adopt through a reputable agency or provider can sometimes result in time and money lost. There have also been many cases of fraud.

"In Oct. 2004, my family and I met with the president of a Rescue Life Orphanage in Haiti," said Chery. "We made a down payment to cover most of the cost of the adoption. After the home study and all the documents were authenticated by the State and the Haitian consulate, the president of the orphanage was nowhere to be found. He had stolen our money."

"We reported him to the police, and filed a civil suit against him and the agency," added Chery. "This was a costly and lengthy setback."

Though adopting military members are not eligible for leave under the Family Medical Leave Act, DoD instruction 1327.06 allows servicemembers to be eligible up for up to 21 days of non-chargeable leave in conjunction with the adoption. Military families are also eligible for an adoption tax credit.

Servicemembers who are interested in adoption can get information and explore their opportunities through the Administration for Children & Families, a department of the U.S. Department of Human Services. There are also free seminars and workshops offered in many locations.

"Adopting a child should not be taken lightly," said Chery. "The process is easy for some and overwhelming for others; not only for the adopting family, but the child involved. Research the family and the environment of the child as much as possible, and take advantage of your local resources."