Adopt
Every child deserves a place to belong. Here, you’ll find inspiring profiles of children waiting for adoption, each with a unique story.
For comprehensive adoption resources, including information on licensing, training, and post-adoption support, please visit Partnership for Strong Families’ adoption page.
The confidentiality and safety of our children is very important to us. The Heart Gallery of PSF waiting and matched child profiles will only be accessible to those families who have approved home studies, are current licensed foster parents, or work within the system of care. Login or register to see children currently waiting to be matched.
The adoption process
To learn more about the adoption process and how you can provide a loving home for a child, visit pfsf.org.
Step 1: Contact Us
Email our Recruitment team at HopePartner@pfsf.org to learn about the process and ask questions
Step 2: Screening & background check
Meet with PSF to discuss your adoption goals and complete necessary paperwork for background checks.
Step 3: Orientation & training
Attend training on foster care, adoption, and trauma-informed parenting to prepare for the journey.
Step 4: Home study
An adoption specialist will visit your home, gather references, and review your application. Once approved, you'll be considered for a match every 60 days.
Step 5: Matching & full disclosure
If selected, you’ll receive detailed information about the child to ensure a good fit.
Step 6: Transition
Before placement, your family and the child will meet through scheduled visits, following a transition plan.
Step 7: Post-placement supervision
For at least 90 days, a worker will visit monthly to assess how the child and family are adjusting before finalization.
Step 8: Finalization
A judge will finalize the adoption, legally making the child part of your family.
Step 9: Post-adoption support
Ongoing support is available to help your family at any stage after adoption.
FAQs
Adopting a child is a life-changing journey, and you may have many questions along the way. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about the process, requirements, and what to expect.
What are the requirements to adopt?
To adopt in Florida, prospective parents must meet the following requirements:
- Age – You must be at least 18 years old unless an exception is granted by the adoption agency.
- Home Study – A mandatory home study assesses your home environment, includes interviews, background checks, and provides adoption education.
- Background Checks – Federal and state criminal history checks, including fingerprinting, as well as abuse and neglect screenings, are required.
- Financial Stability – While there is no set income requirement, you must demonstrate the ability to provide for a child.
- Residency – You do not have to be a Florida resident to adopt, but you must be a U.S. citizen or have lawful immigration status.
- Adoption Education – Completion of a state-approved training course is required. Our program uses the STAR curriculum through the National Training and Development Curriculum (NTDC).
How can I prepare for a successful adoption?
Preparing for a successful adoption starts with learning about the process, expectations, and potential challenges. Reflect on your emotional, financial, and physical readiness to ensure you can provide a stable, loving home. Surround yourself with a strong support network of family, friends, and other adoptive parents who can offer guidance and encouragement. Be patient—adoption can take time—and maintain open, honest communication with your adoption agency and assigned case worker. A positive mindset and clear communication will help create a smoother transition for both you and the child.