ELIGIBILITY

Are you eligible to adopt?

• The following are the minimum requirements to begin the application process:
• Residency in York Region
• Minimum 18 years of age
• Good general health
• Financially self-sufficient
• Stable relationship for two years (including same-sex couples, common-law, single applicants)
• Consent of all immediate family members
• Demonstrated healthy individual and family histories
• Sound mental health
• No substance abuse; no condoning of illegal substances
• No criminal charges pending or significant criminal background
• No verified or suspected incidents of child abuse
• No significant previous client involvement with a CAS
• Adequate living and sleeping premises for a child
• Demonstrated ability to carry out essential duties of parenting
• Ability to ensure a child will have appropriate developmental environment
• Adequate language and communication skills
• Willingness to learn new skills
• Willingness to work with the agency and other professionals
• Adequate understanding of adoptive care
• Adequate understanding of circumstances around which children come into the care of CAS
• Sensitivity to cultural differences and backgrounds of children
• Applicants must not be actively pursuing infertility treatments.
• Have no children under 3 years of age at home
  "NOTE: If you do have a child under 3 years of age we suggest you consider becoming a full time or relief foster parent. This option provides you an opportunity to develop skills and knowledge ultimately beneficial to an adoption placement in your home. If you would like to learn more about fostering please contact the Foster Parent Recruiter at extension 2284."

There are many steps in the adoption process. Some are very fast, while other steps require more time and careful consideration.