Adoption is a legal process that establishes a lifelong parent-child relationship between an adult and a child not born to them. The adoptive parent(s) are legally and morally responsible for all aspects of the child’s care. Families desiring to adopt in Union County are encouraged to look at the option of foster-to-adopt. For children whom the court determines cannot return to their biological parents or relatives, foster parents may be considered as adoptive families. Adoptive families may receive monthly assistance and medical coverage for the care of the child. Adoptive parents: May be married, single or divorced. May have other children. Must be at least 18 years old to adopt, at least 21years old to foster. May own or rent a house or apartment. Will receive training to help parent children who have been separated from their birth families. Will evaluate (with a social worker) parenting strengths during a home study. May receive financial aid to help meet the child’s special needs. For more information about adoption contact the Foster Care/Adoption Specialist at (937) 644-1010 or visit the AdoptOHIO web page at www.state.oh.us/odjfs/oapl.