Qualifications
Marital Status
We accept single and married applicants. Couples
must be married for at least one year. Of course,
some of our resources require a longer period
of marriage, and some do not accept single applicants.
Age
To meet immigration requirements, one parent must
be at least 25 years old. With the exceptions
of China and Vietnam, we cannot accept applications
for infants if either parent is over 45.
Citizenship
At least one parent must be a United
States citizen to adopt internationally.
Health
Applicants must be in good mental and physical
health with no serious medical problems or disabilities.
If an applicant has a chronic medical problem
controlled by medication, or a medical problem
in remission, we will need a detailed statement,
including prognosis, in writing from a physician.
Decisions will be made on an individual basis.
Finances
The financial situation of each family
is reviewed individually. The actual amount earned
is less important than the family's ability to
manage adequately on that amount.
Pregnancy
Should a pregnancy occur during the
homestudy or the waiting period before a child
is assigned, we ask applicants to notify us and
be prepared to delay the adoption. If the pregnancy
occurs after a child has been assigned, we will
make decisions to go forward on a case-by-case
basis.
Previous Adoptions
Prior adoptions
must be legalized (finalized) before beginning
a homestudy with Alliance.
Residence
To complete a homestudy with
Alliance, both prospective parents must be residents
of Massachusetts or Rhode Island. Those living
outside Massachusetts and Rhode Island are required
to have a homestudy prepared by a licensed agency
or social worker in the state in which they reside.
Time at Home
If you are adopting a child under one year of
age, we require one parent to remain at home for
at least two months after the child comes home.
Adopted children who receive early and consistent
care by a loving parent make a better adjustment.
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