Division of Family and Children's Services
How to Adopt ...

Child Abuse Hot Line
1-800-222-8000 (Nationwide) or (601) 359-4991


Mississippi Adoption Resource Exchange
1-800-821-9157 or (601) 359-4989
  
 
 

How to Adopt ...

    Step 1 Contact...
    The Mississippi Adoption Resource Exchange Toll-Free at 1-800-821-9157 to obtain additional information and an application.

    Step 2 Application
    Once your application has been received, it will be evaluated to determine if you meet the minimum requirements (such as age, length of marriage, sufficient income). You may be placed on a waiting list.

    Step 3 Training Sessions
    If we are able to proceed with your application, you will be invited to attend a series of five weekly training sessions. The sessions cover such topics as how children come into our custody; how to explain adoption to a child; understanding the process of separation and attachment; child development; and how to manage behavior.

    Step 4 Home Study
    You will be asked to participate in a series of interviews with a social worker. These interviews allow you and your social worker the opportunity to discuss practical as well as emotional factors surrounding adoption.

    The home study helps you and your social worker determine if you and your family are ready to adopt and what type child would best fit into your family.

    Step 5 Placement
    Placement begins with short visits between you and the child and are gradually extended to over night. When the social worker, the child and you feel everyone is ready, arrangements will be made for placement in your home.

    Step 6 Post Placement
    Once a child is placed in your home, your social worker will visit several times to help you and your child with the adjustment process. These visits will continue for at least six months until we can recommend the adoption be finalized by the court. You may choose any attorney you wish to represent you during the adoption proceedings in court.

COST

    The Mississippi Department of Human Services does not charge any fees for its adoption services. However, when it is time to finalize the adoption, you are expected to pay attorney fees, only if the child does not receive Adoption Assistance.

For information on how to adopt, please contact the Mississippi Adoption Resource Exchange at
1-800-821-9157 or (601) 359-4407 (Jackson).

The Mississippi Department of Human Services does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex or handicap.