LSM?s roots are founded in a heart for providing loving families for orphans. Ten years ago, we started providing free adoption resources for couples trying to navigate the often overwhelming waters of adoption. We?ve grown a lot since those first days, but still provide free adoption resources to hundreds of of people every year. So as we step out into National Adoption month, let?s talk to Jen Schwartz, our Adoption Resources Manager and learn more about what we do for families interested in adopting.
So Jen, I?m looking to adopt, but I have no idea where to start. What do I do? I don?t even know whether we?re looking towards international, domestic or fostering to adopt?
I encourage families to complete and submit?LSM?s Couples/Singles Assessment Form via our website (www.loving-shepherd.org). This is the first step in providing?LSM with the information we specifically need to determine which type(s) of adoption?a family is interested in and which options a family is actually eligible to pursue.? Of the approximately 50 countries open to international adoption, each individual country has their own set of requirements and restrictions. The information on the assessment form allows LSM to determine which countries and programs are currently options based on?each individual family. LSM provides information and assistance on international, infant domestic adoption, foster care, and special needs (waiting children) programs.
We?ve filled out the assessment form. Now what?
After a family completes and submits an assessment form, LSM will determine which programs fit the family?s desires and which programs a family is eligible for. LSM sends the family a packet of information outlining and explaining each international and domestic program and option.? If a family is interested in domestic adoption, we explain the process and options for?infant program, special needs program or foster care/adopt program.? If a family is?interested in international adoption we provide a detailed sheet on each country.? LSM?also includes information on history of adoption for each specific country, important time lines or changes, specific requirements or restrictions for a country and factors associated with the particular country.?We also help answer any questions or provide additional information at this step in order to help a family make a decision. ??Once a family narrows down their options and decides on a specific program, we provide the family with a list of agencies.? LSM has determined through research and years of experience a listing of reputable, experienced and ethical agencies.? We also provide a list of helpful questions to families who are contacting agencies for domestic or international adoption, adoption attorneys or adoption facilitators.
What if we change our minds or feel like God directs us differently. Are we committed to anything when we fill out the assessment forms?
Once a family submits the form and works with LSM Adoption Services, there are no commitments.? We are here to offer research and advice on adoption at anytime for a family.? If a family determines adoption is not the path they would like to pursue, LSM can provide information on various orphan care opportunities in which our ministry works with.
What can we do to support families who are going through the adoption process right now?
It is important to come alongside couples and individuals throughout the entire adoption process, not just at the beginning.? First, pray for the family who is adopting!? You can specifically pray as a family goes through the home study process, completes the dossier (adoption paperwork), as the family is in the waiting stage of receiving a referral,? as the family travel and finalizes the adoption.? Prayer and support can make such a difference as family is going through the adoption process. ?You can find more about how to support adoption here.
Thanks to Jen for highlighting our adoption resources so well.?You can find more details about our free Adoption Resources on our website.?
Tell us about your experience using our resources. How did that help your family??
Source: http://loving-shepherd.org/blog/lsm-talking-about-adoption-resources/
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