Adoptive Parent FAQ

Do I have to be Lutheran to use your services?
No! While our agency's heritage is rooted in the Lutheran Church, Lutheran Social Service has always served all people, regardless of religious affiliation. Our mission, "to express the love of Christ for all people through acts of service," is based upon our Lutheran philosophy. 

How long will the adoption process take?
That depends upon the program you select. Sometimes there are children waiting in Minnesota; sometimes there are children waiting in the international programs. Please consult the specific program pages. 

How much will the adoption process cost?
That, too, depends upon the program. For example, there are NO up-front costs for adopting a Minnesota child with special needs. Fees for international adoptions vary, country by country, and each has its own travel requirements and costs. Please consult the specific program pages. 

What if I am interested in pursuing an international adoption in a country where you don't have a program?
LSS has partnerships with other agencies that do have programs in countries around the world. We have, for example, worked with various agencies finding homes for children from Russia, China, Guatemala, Brazil, Cambodia, India and other countries. Additionally, we are qualified to complete your home study and assist you with your dossier, required for any international adoption. Current communication technology facilitates a seamless adoption experience. 

Do you place children with singles?
For international adoptions, we work within the guidelines set by other countries and programs. Vietnam, for example, allows single parents, while Ukraine requires two parents. LSS will work with single parents if they desire to adopt through our Infant and Open Adoption program, but the majority of Minnesota birth parents select a married couple. There are children waiting in the Special Needs program, through which single individuals may adopt. We will work with you to find the program that suits you best. 

Do you place children with same-sex couples?
LSS does not discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation. In our international adoption programs, there are some countries that have restrictions in this area, while other programs have no such qualifications. We can guide you to the best solution for your situation. 

What are the ages of the available children?
This, again, depends upon the program. It may range from newborns in our Infant Open Program, to toddlers and school-age children in the International Program, to older children in the Special Needs Program. 

Are siblings available?
There are sibling groups in both the Minnesota and U.S. Waiting Children Programs (a.k.a. Special Needs) who are looking for a permanent family. Sibling groups are also common in some countries including Colombia, Philippines, Russia and Ukraine. 

Do you post photos of the children on the Internet?
No. It is our policy to work closely with you to determine the best situation for the children and families. Photos and videotapes may then be available when you are more certain of the program that best fits everyone's needs. 

Must I be a Minnesota resident? 
Yes and no. All applicants seeking home study services must be residents of, and live in, Minnesota. LSS often facilitates placement of children for families in other states. 

What are the necessary qualifications for prospective adoptive parents?
You should believe in building a family through adoption, and be committed to caring for and raising a child. You should have sufficient income to meet the expenses of a child and be able to provide financial stability. Managing your resources is more significant than actual income, and we have no categorical rules regarding size or type of housing. Specific programs may have age, marital, and income criteria. Please consult the program pages. 

What would disqualify me as a prospective adoptive parent?
A conviction, admission or substantial evidence of an act of assault; child battering, abuse, molestation, or neglect; elder abuse; felony conviction within the previous five years, and at the discretion of LSS, within the previous ten years; chemical dependency, unless the person has received treatment and been chemically free for at least three years; extensive history of severe and persistent mental or physical illness; non-U.S. citizen. Some programs in other countries have minimum qualifications regarding age, marital status, and/or number of children allowed in the home.