If you are single, you must be at least 25 years old and at least 10 years older than the child you wish to adopt. Married couples must be at least 10 years older than the child they wish to adopt. A family needs to make only enough money to cover their own living expenses. This is a chance for the caseworker to learn about you and your family while you learn about the children who need homes. MAPP consists of 30 hours of training and home visits by a caseworker.
Some assistance is available to help meet the costs of caring for children with special needs.
The amount of the assistance depends on what the child's needs are. More money may be available to help pay for medical or psychological services. Some of the children with special needs will still be eligible for Medicaid after adoption. You can get a description of the child before you meet him or her. Often you can see a picture of the child.