Events
Adoption
The Children's Aid Society of Ottawa places approximately 70 children into adoptive homes every year. Most of these children have been removed from their homes because of abuse and neglect.
Most children waiting to be adopted are school-aged or in a sibling group that needs to stay together. Many have emotional disabilities; others have physical, mental or developmental disabilities. All need the love of a permanent family.
Who Can Adopt?
Below is a guide for those wishing to adopt.
- people who are willing to make a commitment to a child for a permanent lifetime relationship
- people from all cultural, racial and ethnic backgrounds
- people who are single, married, divorced, widowed, gay or lesbian
- people who are at least 19 years of age
- people who can financially manage the addition of a child(ren)
- people who have lots of parenting experience or none at all
- people who have no criminal history that will prevent them from being approved to adopt
The Process
You will need to first attend an Information Session to learn more about all that is involved in adopting a child and the children who are waiting for homes. Check under the section "Information Sessions" for upcoming dates and locations. You will then need to complete and submit an application to the Society. Application forms can be picked up at the Information Session. You can also fill out our application form on line at www.fosteradoptwinningkids.com .
You will need to attend the Society`s required training program which is a 20 hour program focusing on the issues in adoption and foster care. At the same time as attending the training program, you will participate in a home study that gathers extensive information about you.
This is a mutual process whereby both the worker and applicant decide on whether adoption is right for you and, if so, which child would be best matched with you.
How long will it take to adopt?
There is a waiting period for all adoptions. The time frame varies with the type of child being adopted and the range of acceptance of adoption applicants. Children with special needs can often be adopted quickly, while the wait for a healthy infant can take years. Our philosophy is to find a family to meet the child's needs and not vice versa.
For more information call (613) 742-1620 or visit, www.fosteradoptwinningkids.com.
Adoption Disclosure
The Children's Aid Society of Ottawa provides adoption disclosure services to approximately 400 individuals per year. This includes the provision of non-identifying information to adult adoptees, birth relatives and former crown wards. As well, the Society prepares individuals who have been matched for a reunion and referred by the Adoption Disclosure Registry maintained by the Ministry of Children and Youth Services.
If you were adopted through the Children's Aid Society of Ottawa or were a former Crown Ward, and you would like to obtain information you will need to complete a application form which can be obtained by calling (613) 747-7800 ext. 2720.
Information Sessions
Come to the Adoption Information sessions and learn about the joys and rewards of adoption.
Hear about the children in need of permanent adoption homes and the process of becoming an adoptive parent.
The session begins at 7 p.m. at the Children's Aid Society of Ottawa, 1602 Telesat Court unless otherwise indicated. Call 742-1620 to register!
Adoption and Foster Care Information Sessions - 2008-2009