Beyond the Papers: NC Adoption Agency Focuses on Lifelong Support for Families

Raleigh, NC – As National Adoption Month draws attention to the need for loving homes for children, one North Carolina organization is stepping beyond traditional adoption services, focusing on the often-overlooked needs of families after the paperwork is signed. Children’s Home Society (CHS) of North Carolina is pioneering a model that prioritizes comprehensive, lifelong support, acknowledging that adoption isn’t a one-time event, but a journey.

For over a century, CHS has connected children with families, but in recent years, the agency has doubled down on post-adoption services, recognizing a critical gap in support. According to recent data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, approximately 10,800 children are currently in foster care, and while adoptions offer a permanent solution for many, the transition and ongoing challenges for adoptive families can be significant.

“Adoption is wonderful, but it’s also complex,” explains a social worker with CHS. “There are unique challenges that adoptive families face, and often, once the adoption is finalized, support tapers off. We believe that’s a disservice to these families.”

Addressing the Gaps in Support

While the initial excitement of welcoming a child into a family is immense, the reality of adoption can bring forth emotional, behavioral, and practical hurdles. Children who have experienced trauma, neglect, or instability may exhibit attachment difficulties, emotional regulation challenges, or learning disabilities. Adoptive parents may struggle with these challenges, feeling ill-equipped or isolated.

CHS addresses these needs through a range of post-adoption services, including individual and family counseling, support groups, specialized training for parents, and access to resources for children with special needs. The agency also offers financial assistance to help families cover the costs of therapy, tutoring, or medical care.

“It’s about building resilience within the family,” says a parent who utilized CHS’s services. “Knowing that we had a place to turn to when things got tough made all the difference.”

A Holistic Approach

CHS’s holistic approach extends beyond addressing immediate challenges. The agency recognizes the importance of supporting the well-being of all family members, including biological siblings, grandparents, and other caregivers. They offer specialized services for teens who have experienced foster care or adoption, helping them navigate identity formation, build healthy relationships, and achieve their full potential.

This emphasis on long-term support is particularly crucial in North Carolina, where the number of children entering foster care has remained relatively stable in recent years, and the need for adoptive families continues to be significant. The average length of stay in foster care is approximately 22 months, highlighting the urgent need for permanent homes and ongoing support.

“We’re not just looking at finding homes for children; we’re looking at building strong, lasting families,” emphasizes a policy advocate working with CHS. “That requires a commitment to supporting these families for the long haul.”

Beyond Individual Support: Addressing Systemic Challenges

While CHS’s direct services are making a tangible difference in the lives of adoptive families, the agency is also working to address systemic challenges that contribute to the need for post-adoption support. They advocate for policies that increase funding for foster care and adoption services, improve access to mental health care, and address the root causes of child abuse and neglect.

This advocacy work is particularly important in light of recent data highlighting the disproportionate number of children of color in foster care. According to the North Carolina Child Welfare Information System, children of color are overrepresented in the foster care system, and they often experience longer lengths of stay and fewer opportunities for adoption.

“We need to address the systemic inequities that contribute to the overrepresentation of children of color in foster care,” says a social worker specializing in transracial adoption. “That requires a commitment to cultural competency, anti-bias training, and equitable access to resources.”

A Model for the Future?

As National Adoption Month comes to a close, CHS’s commitment to lifelong support serves as a powerful reminder that adoption is not a one-time event, but a lifelong journey. By prioritizing the well-being of adoptive families, the agency is not only improving the lives of individual children and families but also building stronger, more resilient communities.

Experts suggest CHS's model could serve as a blueprint for other adoption agencies across the country. While many agencies offer some level of post-adoption support, few prioritize it to the same extent as CHS. By demonstrating the tangible benefits of comprehensive, lifelong support, CHS is paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable adoption system.

“It’s about recognizing that adoption is not a finish line; it’s a beginning,” says a parent who has benefited from CHS’s services. “And we need to be there for these families every step of the way.”

Resources:

• Children’s Home Society of North Carolina: https://www.chsnc.org/
• North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services – Foster Care: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/
• Child Welfare Information Gateway: https://www.childwelfare.gov/