In recent years, the number of older children that have been adopted by U.S. families has fallen. This is in part due to the media attention of issues facing older, orphaned children and in part due to the cost associated with the adoption of an older foreign child vs. the domestic adoption of an older child.
At Adoption ARK, we are advocates for adoption, whether domestic or international. However, we devote our sole attention to the plight of foreign orphans. After all, every child deserves a family no matter where they were born.
The media has done an excellent job showcasing some of the issues of children that were adopted from orphanages abroad. These issues are real and it is important for families to realize that the decision to adopt an older child is not one to be taken lightly. However, the media has not done a good job of highlighting the successful adoption stories of older children. As the parent of a daughter adopted at age 12, I can share with you that the decision to adopt my daughter was the best decision of my life.
In 2010, Adoption ARK made available two different adoption grants, for new clients of Adoption ARK, that focus on the adoption of older children.
The Kirill Adoption Grant was inspired by a little boy who stole the hearts of Adoption ARK staff at camp in 2006 & 2007 and was later adopted at age 8. This grant is specifically for the adoption of children ages 5-8 years old. Available Kirill Grants range from $1000-$5000, depending on the country of adoption. Kirill is pictured above with his brother, Valentin.
The Ksusha Adoption Grant was inspired by the adoption of my daughter, Ksusha Fury. Ksusha was adopted at age 12 and, currently age 15, Ksusha excels in school, sports, and is a blessing to all who know her. This grant is specifically for the adoption of children ages 9 and older. Available Ksusha Grants range from $1000-$10,000, depending on the country of adoption. Ksusha, with her Dad, is pictured above.
Grants for children with special medical needs are also available. The Emma Adoption Grant was inspired by a little girl adopted from Kazakhstan who had a cleft lip and palate. Today, Emma is a bright and precocious daughter in a wonderfully supportive family. Emma has an excellent future prognosis and is thriving with the support of family and proper medical care. The Emma Grant is specifically for the adoption of children with varying special needs. Available Emma Grants range from $1000-$10,000, depending on the country and adoption circumstances.
Please contact your adoption consultant for information on how to apply for a grant.