Hello, my name is Sarah Hunter, and I am here to walk you through the foster care and/or adoption process. I am happy to answer your adoption and foster questions and assist you in making the adoption process a positive experience. For more information please contact me, your AdoptUsKids Recruitment Response Team, at 1-800-451-5246, ext. 277.
Contact Information
The Adoption Exchange
Sarah Hunter
1-800-451-5246, ext. 277
shunter@adoptex.org
Licensing Requirements for Foster or Adoption
A family must have sufficient resources to care for a child. Age and health are also considerations. The Virgin Islands’ Department of Human Services (DHS) requires identifying documents: a birth certificate, a social security card, immigration documents, marriage/divorce documents, if applicable, verification of address and employment and income. DHS also requires a doctor's physical exam, 5 letters of reference and a police record check. We also request a letter of introduction, including the family’s reasons for wanting to become foster or adoptive parents, and a photo.
Does it Cost to Foster or Adopt?
DHS does not presently charge a fee for any part of the adoption process. However, when it is time to finalize the adoption, the family must hire a private attorney to file the petition (This costs $500.00 and up).
Agency Contact and Orientation Information
St. Croix, VI
Office of Intervention Services, Department of Human Services
Elizabeth L. Mueller, District Manager
6179 Ann's Hope
Christiansted, St. Croix, VI 00820
(340) 773-5303
Fax: (340) 773-1882
St. Thomas, VI
Office of Intervention Services, Department of Human Services
Lydia Francis, District Manager
Knud Hansen Complex
St. Thomas, VI 00802
(340) 774-7865 or (340)774-4393
Fax: (340) 773-0082
VIDA (Voice for International Development and Adoption)
http://members.aol.com/vidaadopt/vida.html
vidaadopt@aol.com
(518) 828-4527
Information on Children
As of February 2008, there are 6 children available for adoption in St. Croix.
The children in the public child welfare system range in age from 0 to 21. Abuse, neglect or other family issues prevent them from living with their birth parents.
Learn more about adoption, foster care and children who are waiting for families.