Foster & adoption: childhood
Many Stark County community members choose to expand their families through fostering and adoption. For children who need a stable home, the permanent care of adoption or the temporary safe haven of fostering can help. Even if you are not sure if fostering or adoption is the right path for you, find information to help you learn about the options available.
Most children who are eligible for adoption in Stark County are over the age of six and have experienced some level of trauma, abuse, neglect or loss. Despite these experiences, they are just like any other children. They play, laugh, learn and value friendships. Some may need specialized services to help them reach their full potential, but they all deserve the love and support of family.
- Foster and Adoption services
Are you interested in learning more about adoption services in Stark County? All children have hopes of being welcomed into permanent, loving and committed families. Whether you are pregnant and exploring your options or an aspiring adoptive parent, find local resources to offer support, knowledge and assistance throughout the process.
Read more - Emotional support for children in foster care
Children in the Stark County foster care system have often experienced trauma, neglect or abuse sometime in their young lives. By supporting the unique needs of this vulnerable population, educators, foster families and social workers can help offset the effects of these negative experiences. Professional mental health providers in our community offer many different treatment…
Read more - Sexual Health and Pregnancy/STI Prevention
If you are unsure about the family planning methods available to you and want to learn more about your options, you are not alone. Find local resources, programs and community organizations providing reproductive health services for individuals and couples in Stark County.
Read more - Foster & adoptive parent eligibility
You don’t need to be perfect to be a foster parent. You don't need to own your home or have parenting experience. Foster parents can be young or older and they are from all economic and cultural backgrounds. All that’s required is a stable, mature, dependable and flexible family environment.
Read more - Starting the adoption process
Although the foster/adoption process in Stark County doesn't cost a lot, it can be time-consuming and emotional. On average, it takes from four to 12 months to complete the required steps, including the application, home study and training process. These steps, though sometimes taxing, ensure the safety and best fit for the adopted child.
Read more - Traumatic event resources
Traumatic events can have long-lasting and profound impacts on children and young adults. The emotional and behavioral repercussions can present right away or even years later. Recognizing the signs early can help a family cope in the aftermath of a tragedy. Visit starkmhar.org/topics/traumatic-event-resources for more information and resources.
Read more - Your role as a foster parent
Foster parents play an essential part in helping children recover from the trauma or abuse of their pasts. They can provide a stabilizing presence and teach valuable life lessons while children are in their care. Learn what is required from foster and adoptive parents in Stark County and where to go to get started.
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