Becoming an adoptive or foster parent in Alaska gives you a chance to make a measurable difference in the life of one or more children in need. Many people are eligible to become foster or adoptive parents in the state. However, there is a specific process involved in doing so.
The primary difference between fostering and adopting a child is that fostering is typically temporary while adopting is permanent.
Who is eligible to foster or adopt in Alaska
Marital status does not factor in when determining whether you may adopt a child in Alaska. You may be single, married or in a committed relationship and still be able to foster or adopt. It also does not matter whether you have existing parenting experience, or whether you currently own your home or rent it. Ultimately, what matters is that you show that you have what it takes to cater to a child and advocate for his or her needs.
What you must do to move forward
If you decide to move forward with the process of fostering or adopting a child in Alaska, the state requires that you complete an orientation class. Called CORE Training for Resource Families, the 1.5-hour class teaches you about foster care licensing requirements and what it takes to adopt a child through the state’s foster care system. You may be able to participate in person, over the phone, online, or via self-study, depending on circumstances.
Once you complete the CORE Training orientation, the next step involved in fostering or adopting a child involves having a representative come to your home for a home study. There is a fee involved with the home study. However, if you wind up adopting a child through the Alaska Office of Children’s Services, you may be able to have some of that fee reimbursed.