November is National Adoption Month, a time we can celebrate the loving families created through adoption. We’re also raising awareness for the thousands of children and teens currently waiting for a permanent home. There are more than 2,700 waiting children in North Carolina alone.
Here at Crossnore, we work to ensure every child has a path to permanence. Many loving people consider adopting from foster care, but often hesitation creeps in, fueled by common misconceptions and confusing processes.
We want to cut through that noise. Adoption from foster care is a life-changing journey, and it’s much more accessible than you might think. Let’s separate the most common myths from the powerful facts together.
Let’s Debunk, Shall We?
Myth: Adoption from foster care is expensive.
Cost is likely the biggest perceived barrier for interested families. People often think all types of adoption are high-cost, but the reality of adoption through fostering is quite different.
Fact: Adoption through the state’s foster care system is very affordable.
Most expenses related to legal fees and court costs are covered by the state. Children who are adopted from foster care—especially those who are older, part of a sibling group, or have specific medical needs (state-classified as having “special needs”)—are typically eligible for ongoing support programs. This includes the federally-funded adoption assistance (subsidy) program and continued health coverage through Medicaid.
There is also an adoption tax credit. This is a federal tax credit designed to assist families with the costs associated with adopting a child. The credit can significantly reduce the financial burden of adoption, covering various expenses such as court fees, attorney fees, and travel costs related to the adoption process.
Myth: Only affluent, married people “who have it all together” should apply.
This myth makes people feel like they must clear an impossible bar of “perfection” before they can even apply.
Fact: We welcome, celebrate, and need diverse families in all shapes and sizes.
You don’t need to be wealthy, own a home, or fit any specific mold to adopt from foster care. At Crossnore, we license and support single parents, working professionals, LGBTQ+ couples, individuals who rent, and older adults. What matters most is providing stability, safety, and a commitment to learn and grow with your child(ren). Our focus during the licensing process is on your emotional availability and your capacity to offer a committed, permanent family environment.
Myth: Foster care is the best path if you want to adopt a baby.
While some infants do enter foster care, most are quickly reunited with their parents or placed with relatives. Children available for adoption through foster care are usually older or part of sibling groups.
Fact: The greatest, most urgent need is for older children, especially teens and sibling groups.
In North Carolina, the average age of a child waiting to be adopted from foster care is over six years old, and a large number of those waiting are teenagers. Adopting a teen is an incredible opportunity to provide unconditional love and guidance during a crucial age. Waiting teens need someone who shows up, listens, believes in them, and offers a forever place to belong, celebrating all their milestones and guiding them through their transition into adulthood.
Siblings waiting for adoption dream of staying together. Families who open their hearts to a sibling group help prevent further loss, protect those bonds, preserve their shared story, and foster stronger emotional connections and lifelong relationships.
Beyond Finalization: Building Lasting Bonds
Adoption isn’t just about the day the judge finalizes the paperwork. It’s about the lifelong commitment that follows. We know that children in foster care have experienced trauma and loss, and healing takes time and the right tools.
The Role of Trauma-Informed Preparation
We believe that proper preparation is key to lasting success. That’s why we focus heavily on trauma-informed care.
We utilize the National Training Development Curriculum (NTDC). This is the state’s model for foster and adoptive training. The NTDC is based on research and input from experts, families who have experience with fostering or adopting children, and former foster and adoptive youth. By fostering an environment of safety and empathy, you lay the foundation for a resilient, permanent bond.
Once finalization of your adoption is complete, Crossnore will provide additional resources and services so that when or if needed, you have ongoing support for your family and child(ren).
Taking the Next Step Today
This National Adoption Month, don’t let the common myths deter you from making a difference in a child’s life. If you have been considering adoption, let’s chat!
Here’s how you can take the first step toward building your family:
- Attend an Information Session: Sign up for one of our virtual information sessions. Keep an eye on our website, Instagram, or Facebook for upcoming dates.
- Contact Our Team: Reach out to our team with any specific questions you have about eligibility, training, or the children currently waiting.
- Spread the Word: Even if you can’t adopt right now, you can still be an advocate! Share this post to help us find permanent, loving homes for the children who need them most.
Your ability to love and provide for a child are the only true requirements. We would love to partner with you on this incredible journey.
