Adoption Process Overview

Let us know you are interested in adopting by completing our Adoption Interest Form located at Eckerd.org or by calling us at 866-233-0790.
Attend a free, live orientation meeting or register to watch the orientation video at your convenience at: http://eckerdconnects.wpengine.com/i-would-like-to/foster-a-child/pasco-pinellas-florida/online-orientation-and-registration .
Submit a completed orientation packet (provided at the orientation meeting) for review and approval to enter a training class to DJohnson@Eckerd.org.
*Training class space is limited. Enrollment in training will be reserved for those who have identified a child(ren) for adoption. Available children can be located on the following sites: www.heartgallerykids.org (all local children); https://heartgallerytampa.org/ (all local children); and www.adoptflorida.org (some local children)

Complete in-person, professional parenting training course (6-8 weeks).
*Please notify the staff leading orientation if you have already completed training elsewhere.

Complete background screening process, references, and an adoption home study. Once your homestudy is approved, you’ll be ready to explore the next step in the process.
*If there are questions about your background or household, you may be asked to attend an Adoption Application Review Committee staffing to determine your eligibility to adopt

Submit your homestudy to be considered for a match staffing for any and all children you may be interested in adopting.
Your adoption homestudy will be reviewed during a Family Selection Staffing by the child’s professional team.
Attend a Full Disclosure Meeting.
Complete visits with the child(ren) leading towards adoptive placement.
Maintain the adoptive placement of the child(ren) in your home for a minimum of 90 days.
Attend the finalization court hearing, at which time the child(ren) becomes a permanent and legal member of your family, affording you all the rights and responsibilities that come with parenting a biological child.