Chinese adoptions: Military adoption resources

Chinese adoptions by military families require the help of many professionals. The most obvious agency to help any family adopt is the adoption agency itself.

However, because military adoption is often complicated by frequent relocations and/or deployments, the international adoption agency must be proficient in following the paper trail.

For this reason, the Department of Defense recommends military families considering international adoption contact the US Department of State, Children’s Issues Desk at 202.647.2688. The military family should ask about the status of an agency before paying any fees or signing any forms.

The “DoD Adoption Reimbursement Program” Fact Sheet contains invaluable information regarding military adoption. (Click here to get Adobe Reader.) This fact sheet discusses the amount of the adoption reimbursement as well as the qualifications. In addition, it addresses other benefits related to adoption for military families. It is the best place to start if a military family is considering adoption, domestic or international.

For military families pursuing international adoptions such as Chinese adoptions, the DoD recommends two online resources.

This fact sheet provides answers to common questions about military adoption.

This bulletin explains the benefits and challenges of military adoption. It also lists resources available within the military for those families wanting to adopt.

Contained within both resources are numerous links and references to other organizations that are qualified to assist military families with adoptions, including Chinese adoptions.

Military families are encouraged to adopt. Despite their frequent moves/deployments, these families can provide much needed stability in an adopted child’s life. For this reason, many resources are available to assist with military adoption.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Look for those who know the requirements and are willing to assist you with your China adoption. Check with the Better Business Bureau to verify your international adoption agency is in good standing.

In short, do your homework. Chinese adoptions, like all adoptions, require commitment. However, the effort is rewarded.

Military adoption produces an especially beautiful family tapestry. It symbolizes our government’s commitment to helping those who defend our country weave their red threads into forever families.

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