Lisa Peterson is the Program Manager for Building Arizona Family’s Haiti Adoption program. As one of the families she worked with stated, international adoption may be described as “saving starfish” because there are so many children in need of adoption that it seems overwhelming. Building Arizona Families is dedicated to “saving one starfish at a time” through its Haiti adoption program.

Right now, families are urgently needed for Haitian children with special needs. Special needs children are placed for adoption at a higher rate, as their needs are much more difficult for impoverished families to meet. Rehabilitation care in Haiti is almost non-existent, and it is difficult even in an orphanage setting. There is also a need for families to open their hearts and homes to sibling groups, as they are also more difficult to find forever families for.

Adopting a Child From Haiti – Available Children

In addition to special needs children and sibling groups, there are healthy infants and children up to 12 years are available for Haiti adoption. It is important to remember that by the time your Haiti adoption is finalized, your adopted child could be 12-18 months older than when the process started.

Health Concerns for Adopting a Child from Haiti

While most of the children available for Haiti adoption have no permanent health or developmental concerns, the children are tested for HIV, Hepatitis, TB, and Sickle Cell. The effects of drug or alcohol abuse during pregnancy are rare.

Haiti Adoption Requirements

The Haitian government determines who is eligible for Haiti adoption. The Haiti adoption requirements are very specific, including stating that opposite sex married couples with at least one parent age 30 and both parents not older than 48 years old are eligible. Opposite sex married couples must also have been married or in a cohabitation relationship for a total of at least five years. Single applicants ages 35 to 48 are also eligible for Haiti adoption. Find out more HERE about other Haiti adoption requirements and adoption processes.

Why Choose Building Arizona Families for Adopting a Child From Haiti?

Building Arizona Families is Hague accredited as well as being accredited by the government of Haiti for Haiti adoptions. We are one of only 19 US adoption agencies approved to facilitate adoption from Haiti. Additionally, we have a strong, hands-on connection to Haiti. We take pride in our commitment to break down barriers and help adoptive families succeed. Many of our staff are adoptive parents themselves, and we are committed to putting families first.

Additionally, Building Arizona Families offers informative adoption seminars on international adoption in Haiti. For more information on the process of adopting a child from Haiti and to find out about upcoming adoption seminars, please call or e-mail Lisa Peterson, Haiti Adoption Program Manager. She would be happy to answer any questions you might have. You can e-mail HERE, or call her at 623-692-4424.   We also offer informational seminars online, so let Lisa know if you are unable to attend an in person seminar.

Haitian children are a joy to their adoptive families. They tend to adapt very well to life with their new families. They usually have very adaptable personalities and are prepared by the crèche in Haiti to leave to join their forever families. Watch a brief video clip from a Haitian orphanage from children hoping you will move forward in adopting a child from Haiti HERE.

Building Arizona Families is looking forward to serving you on your joyous forever family international adoption journey!