Adoption subsidy is an essential support to the adoption of children with special needs. Many of the families who can provide loving, nurturing homes have modest or moderate incomes. Losing the federal adoption assistance program would derail our best efforts to increase adoptions. Adoption, even with full subsidy, is a very cost effective service. Successful adoption practice requires a multidisciplinary approach.
National advocacy is a waste of time unless state and local systems have the capacity to respond.
Some actions had immediate results, but most did not. That point is especially relevant to shaping a strategy for the future. Thousands of children are waiting for families today. We know a great deal about the technical aspects of adoption and what works for children and families. We know how to recruit, prepare, and support adoptive families.