Nearly 400 children and youth were legally free for adoption in Bexar County as of October 31, according to the Children’s Shelter of San Antonio.
Going from one temporary placement to another in the foster system is traumatic for a child. Twenty-five percent of foster youth experience PTSD and they are seven times more likely to suffer from depression.
Placement into a caring home can have a significant impact on the life of a young person who has been in the foster-care system, but it's not quick or easy. The foster-to-adopt process is often preferable for people who want to spend more time and bond with children before making a long-term commitment.
What questions do you have about adopting in general or adopting from foster care, specifically? What criteria must be met? What steps can you take to prepare?
What post-adoption services exist for youth and their families? Where can new adoptive parents find local support?
Guests:
- Anais Biera, chief public relations officer for The Children's Shelter San Antonio
- Kristin Berry, co-host of the Honestly Adoption podcast and co-author of "Honestly Adoption: Answers to 101 Questions About Adoption and Foster Care"
- Nikki Spencer, care manager with Chosen Care, which provides home-based services for adoptive families
"The Source" is a live call-in program airing Mondays through Thursdays from 12-1 p.m. Leave a message before the program at (210) 615-8982. During the live show, call 210-614-8980, email thesource@tpr.org or tweet @TPRSource.
*This interview was recorded on Wednesday, December 4.
