What is a Home Study?

In order to adopt a child in the United States, you need to have a home study done by an accredited agency.  A home study is a written report that is an assessment of your family to make sure that you can provide a suitable home for a child.

What is necessary to prepare for a home study?

You do not need to prepare for a home study.  Our staff will do the interviews in your home and let you know what documents are necessary.  We realize that the decision to adopt brings with it some anxiousness and we will assist you in completing the homestudy.

What do I do with my home study?

Acquiring the home study is the essential first step in the adoption process.  Once you have this report from our agency, you can contact a lawyer for help with a domestic adoption.

Just a Note About Fees

Orchards Children's Services will provide a free consultation over the phone and then a home study for a fee if you are interested in domestic adoption.

Once you have purchased your home study you may wish to work with an attorney or placing agency as you pursue a domestic adoption.  The typical cost of a domestic adoption is $12,000.  Orchards can start you on this process by supplying you with a home study.  Orchards also has post placement supervision available.

What It Takes to be an Adoptive Parent

Adoptive parents must be at least 18 years old and may be either married or single.  Their income must be sufficient to meet their own family's needs, and they must be able to provide love and stability for the adoptive child.

Free Training and Education

Orchards offers classes that explore the many issues and challenges that may arise as a child and family grow together.  These classes are available free of charge to anyone who is interested.

For further information please call us at 248-258-2099.