Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, we have made a selection of key articles from this website available as downloadable booklets.

It depends on what kind of adoption you decide to pursue. Realistically, most families who decide to adopt should expect a 12-24 month wait. Some happen sooner, and some take longer; there are many factors. But it is worth the wait, no matter how long it takes!

No, not always. You might be surprised to learn that adoption of waiting children in Canada costs almost nothing! Private and international adoptions can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000. Read more in our article “Why is adoption so expensive? Or is it?

We have articles on each of these types of adoption. Visit our Adoption basics section.

Many people are initially intimidated by the prospect of having a social worker come into their home and ask them lots of personal questions. Read this article about what the process is really like and what you can expect.

Visit our section for churches to find practical ideas on beginning a caring ministry to adoptive families.

We have a wonderful article by a mom who shares her experience parenting FAS children. Click here to read her story.

Extended family are important to you and your adoptive children. It’s important to listen to their concerns and invite them to learn along with you as you take this journey. Click here for a helpful article on this topic.

In some cases, you may be; some countries have age restrictions. However, Canadian foster care adoption recruiters would be glad to hear from you and answer your questions about adopting children in care. You might also find it helpful to read this story about a family who adopted later in life.

It depends on many factors, including where you live, what type of adoption you choose and so on. We recommend that you contact a local adoption agency, attend an information session (which are usually free) and ask for their advice. People do adopt babies through all forms of adoption, but there are more older children, and even teens, who desperately long for a forever family of their own.

Yes – in British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario. Click on each province name for more information.

All Canadian adoptions require training, a home study and a period of waiting. You will need the help of an agency or your provincial government. Here’s an article describing what to expect and where to go next.

And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me.

Matthew 18:5

Stay Current

Subscribe to our e-newsletter and get connected to the cause.





Who We Are

Waiting to Belong started as a movement to help the more than 30,000 kids in Canada who are waiting to be adopted. Our goal is to see as many waiting kids as possible be placed into loving, forever families. We work to shape realistic perceptions of adoption and to encourage the body of Christ to come alongside adoptive families in practical, loving ways.

Find out more

© 2012 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association.
All rights reserved.

Focus on the Family (Canada) Association is a registered charity (#10684-5969-RR0001)