Aboriginal Adoptions


Calgary and Area Child and Family Services has many aboriginal children in need of permanent homes and families. The Aboriginal Adoption Program unites these children with families who are interested in bringing a child into their lives and maintaining the child's cultural ties.

Eligibility

Aboriginal people who meet the following criteria may apply:

Residence Resident of Alberta at time of application, home assessment, and placement.
Marital Status Any adult regardless of marital status may apply.
Age Minimum age - 18. Maximum age - determined by the best interests of the child.
Health Physically and mentally capable of meeting the child's needs.
Family Size Aboriginal adoptive parents are permitted to register regardless of the number of children in the home.
Financial Circumstances Adoptive applicants should be living within their means. Post Adoption Support is available to families who adopt older and special needs children, on the premise that no child should be deprived of a permanent home because the family cannot afford to adopt.

Getting Started

  • Contact Calgary and Area Child and Family Services at (403) 297-2789. An Aboriginal Assessment Worker will answer your initial questions, provide information about required training courses and send an application form to you.
  • You may choose to attend an Adoption Orientation meeting, held on the first Wednesday of every month. All application procedures including information checks will be explained. Call Calgary and Area Child and Family Services Adoption Services at (403) 297-2789 to register.
  • Participate in Pre-Service Training. This is a required course for all applicants. Registration information is provided to you by your worker.
  • Send your completed application form to:
    Calgary and Area Child and Family Services
    Native Services Multi-Service Team

    Unit 200, 1021 - 10th Avenue SW
    Calgary, AB T2R 0B7

Next Steps

  • A worker from the Native Services Office will be assigned to you, and will complete a home assessment.
    Note - Home assessments are required by the provincial Adoption Services Headquarters. They are used to ensure the suitability of your home for an adopted child, and that your family and home is equipped to handle any special needs the child may have.
  • Your application is reviewed, and approval is based on the results of the home assessment process.
  • Approved families become part of a province-wide data bank and are tracked by Provincial Adoption Services in Edmonton. You will be considered for children that fall within your child-desired category.

Contact Information

Aboriginal Adoption Program
Calgary and Area Child and Family Services
Native Services-Multi Service Team

Unit 200, 1021 - 10th Avenue SW
Calgary, AB T2R 0B7
Phone (403) 297-2789
Fax (403) 297-4181

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who are the children available for adoption?
A: The majority of children waiting for adoption through Calgary and Area Child and Family Services are older and/or special needs children who have experienced trauma. The special challenges that these children present include prenatal exposure to drugs or alcohol, attachment issues and behavioural and emotional difficulties. These children have the best opportunity of meeting their full potential in a permanent, stable family. Children with Treaty and Band membership are available for adoption with the consent of their band.

View profiles of children available for adoption.

Q: Are there resources available for adopted children and their families?
A: Yes, there are numerous resources available in the community to assist your adopted child and your family with the unique challenges you may face, including Four Directions, a community resource that provides post adoption support to Aboriginal families. They provide access to cultural events, Therapeutic Youth Workers, and help understanding the challenges of adopting a child. Your worker will provide you with a detailed listing of all available resources to help you and your family.

Upcoming Events

Adoption Orientation Meeting - held the first Wednesday evening of every month. Call (403) 297-2789 for more information.

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