Latest Adoption Statistics -- Special Needs

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Recently, ICBF posted their report of the adoption statistics for 2010. I found them very interesting. Today and tomorrow, I will highlight some aspects of the report.

In 2010, there were a total of 3,058 adoptions in Colombia. The surprising statistic is to see how many of those adoptions were of children with special needs -- 889.

Keep in mind the definition of SPECIAL NEEDS ADOPTION in COLOMBIA: Children with disabilities (physical, mental or health issues), children over 8 years of age, and sibling groups of 3 or more.

In 2003-2004, Colombia implemented their Hague compliant adoption program, with goals to increase adoptions of children with Special Needs. The cool thing is to see how their desire to meet their goals has actually brought about as increase in Special Needs Adoptions.

Look at the statistics for children with Special Needs that found forever homes:

In 2002, there were 349 -- 13% of all adoptions.
In 2003, there were 392 -- 22% of all adoptions.
In 2004, there were 356 -- 15% of all adoptions.
In 2005, there were 383 -- 15% of all adoptions.



In 2006, there were 608 -- 22% of all adoptions.
In 2007, there were 776 -- 25% of all adoptions.
In 2008, there were 730 -- 31% of all adoptions.
In 2009, there were 824 -- 30% of all adoptions.
In 2010, there were 889 -- 30% of all adoptions.

If you look at the trend, the number of Special Needs adoptions has doubled. I would say that the plan is proving successful. To read my other blogs on Special Needs click here:

Comments

Carolina said…
Texas DFPS Reimbursement Program for International "Waiting Child" Adoption Expenses

We have learned that Texas offers this reimbursement program for international adoptions of harder-to-place children, which is valid for any family adopting a child who is diagnosed with special needs OR a child who is over the age of 7. The state of Texas will reimburse a family up to $1500 for adoption related expenses.

Families MUST apply before the adoption takes place, and they will receive the funds once they are home. The family must complete an application for reimbursement from DFPS, and the adoption agency must also complete a form and write a letter. Families must work with a caseworker who is assigned to their region and they can find the appropriate office here. Click here to find your local DFPS office.

In the past these funds have been made available only for the purpose of legally completing an adoption in the state, so this is very encouraging news, and I hope families will take advantage of this opportunity. I would recommend that if you believe your child qualifies, that you contact the appropriate DFPS (Department of Family and Protective Services) office to request information about the eligibility and application process as soon as you have accepted the referral of a child with special needs. We will be happy to provide whatever supporting documentation is needed for your application process.
March 18, 2011 at 1:46 PM
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