About Adopting
Every child deserves a safe, loving, and permanent family. Adopting from foster care can be one of life’s most rewarding journeys—for you and for the child you welcome home.
For children’s privacy, full profiles in the Miami Heart Gallery are available only after an assessment and verification by our team.
Who can Adopt?
Adoptive parents come from all walks of life. You don’t have to be married or own a home, and you don’t need a high income—you need stability, commitment, and love. When a court finalizes an adoption, your child becomes a full, permanent member of your family and is no longer in foster care. You’ll make decisions for your child just as you would for any child in your home.
Costs & Support
Adopting from foster care is low/no cost for most families in Florida. Depending on eligibility, many children are also connected to supports that continue after adoption.
Adoption expenses: The State of Florida reimburses up to $1,000 in allowable costs (e.g., attorney fees).
Federal tax credit: You may be eligible for a federal adoption tax credit in the year you adopt.
Monthly adoption subsidy: Many adoptive families receive a monthly stipend until the child turns 18.
College tuition/fee exemption: Eligible adoptees may receive a tuition and fee waiver at Florida public colleges, universities, and career/technical programs—generally valid through age 28.
Post-adoption services: Support is available to help your family thrive.
Note: Benefits vary by child and program. Your recruiter will confirm current eligibility and details.
Our Approach
Whenever safely possible, our system works toward reunifying children with their biological families. When that isn’t possible and parental rights are terminated, children become eligible for adoption. Many are teens, part of sibling groups, or have unique needs. Together with our Full Case Management Agency partners, we focus on making strong, lasting matches.
Minimum
Requirements
We welcome single adults and couples—renters or homeowners—who can provide safety, stability, and love.
Age 21+
Stable housing & finances (room in your home and budget)
Background checks (criminal and child abuse registries)
Required training for foster/adoptive parents
Home study with an Adoption Professional
Lifelong commitment to a safe, supportive environment
Timeline &
What to Expect
Adoptive parents complete the same core training as foster parents. For many families, the process from first class to finalization takes about a year. It’s thorough and child-centered to ensure the best outcome for everyone.
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Call us to complete a brief assessment and receive secure access to view children’s profiles.
Bree Bofill, Adoption Program Manager – 305.455.2859
Katrella Smalls, Adoptions Supervisor –
786-521-6194
Citrus Family Care Network – 305.455.6000
Or email us at aprecruitment@citrusfcn.com
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Attend a Prospective Foster & Adoptive Parent Orientation (virtual or in person).
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Complete required classes that prepare you for parenting a child from foster care.
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While training, a licensing counselor completes an in-depth assessment of your home and family.
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The Citrus Family Care Network Adoption team confirms your approval.
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Our Full Case Management Agencies or Adoption Permanency Recruiters identify children who may fit your family profile.
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Begin connections—conversations, photo sharing, and visits to build trust and rapport.
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After placement, an adoption worker visits monthly to support adjustment and services.
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Your attorney schedules a court hearing; the judge finalizes the adoption—your child is legally and forever yours.
