Adoptions
Many children are in foster care because they were removed from their family due to abuse or neglect. We work very hard to resolve the problems in the home so that children can return home. Sometimes it is in the best interest of the child to leave their home.
There are about 120 children each year in San Luis Obispo County who are in need of long term or permanent homes. We make every effort to minimize the number of foster care homes in which a child is placed. Generally, the initial placement of a child is in a long-term foster home that is willing to work to return the child to the birth parents. If that fails, the ideal situation is for foster parents to adopt the child.
Our focus is to place a child in a foster home that is willing to adopt. If you would like to adopt a child, the wait for a child is shorter if you are willing to be a long-term foster parent. If you are thinking of starting a family, or adding another member to your family, please consider adopting or fostering a child who desperately needs the love of a family.
Most children adopted through the County are eligible to Adoption Assistance.
Adoption Benefits
The Adoption Assistance payment is calculated by subtracting income received by or on behalf of the child from the foster care payment that the child would have received in a foster family home had the child remained there.
What kinds of children are referred for adoption?
All kinds. Ages range from toddlers to teenagers. Many races, ethnic groups, and socio-economic categories are represented. Some children have special needs, and some have only one need: a safe and loving home.
Children all need the nurturing and support that a permanent family can provide. Every child deserves a chance to grow up feeling secure and loved. These wonderful children are among the thousands with special needs who are waiting for adoptive families.
What kind of person adopts?
A person who loves children. A person who wants to help a child grow up to be a happy and fulfilled adult. You could be a first-time parent or an experienced parent who already has children and have room for more in your home and your heart. You can be married or single. You don't have to own your home or have a minimum income level. You don't have to be the same race or ethnic background as the child. You can even adopt if you are a working parent with a responsible childcare plan.
You share a strong desire to love and care for children. You exhibit maturity and tolerance.
If you feel you have something to offer and want to provide a safe, stable and nurturing environment for a child, you are the "kind of person" who adopts.
How do I apply?
Please call the Department of Social Services at (805) 781-1705, or write to the Department of Social Services, Adoptions Unit, PO Box 8119, San Luis Obispo, CA 93403-8119. The Department will provide you with all the details you need to get started with your Adoption application.
Upcoming Events and Trainings
Click here to find information about upcoming events and training sessions of interest to parents of adopted children.