(801) 334-8683
info@wiaa.orgLiving through a world-wide pandemic is something that none of us have experienced before. Our thoughts and prayers are with all families around the world – for those who are sick, for those who have lost loved ones, and for those who are uncertain what the future holds. Like you, we are all anxious to return to normal.
During this unusual time, Wasatch International Adoptions is proceeding with business as usual. Some of us are working from home, but most are still coming into the office daily. If you are interested in adopting a child from a foreign country, please give us a call. Our inquiry specialist would be more than happy to give you information about our foreign adoption programs. Also, our 2nd Chance for Kids program is a great adoption option for families as well as a lifeline for families who are struggling with their adopted children. You can see profiles of available children in some of our programs on our website by going to these following links:
If you are already in the process of adopting a child through WIA, please know that even during this pandemic we have not forgotten you and you continue to be important to us. We are working hard on your adoption case. We are in contact with our foreign providers constantly to monitor your adoption case and each country situation. For those who are in the process of adopting, your program manager is available every day to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Questions
Can you help us with a home study right now during this pandemic?
The answer is yes, we can. In the State of Utah many regulations are beginning to ease. Even with the easing of restrictions, our goal is to keep you and our social workers safe. But, even before the home visit can be scheduled for a home visit by the social worker, there are many things you can do from your home to prepare for the home visit. Please disinfect any areas of the house where the social worker will be spending the majority of his or her time. He or she is required by law to do a walk-through of the house, but it is not necessary to do a deep clean in every room. Just be mindful that he or she will need a place to do interviews that has been disinfected, so for instance a living room, dining area, home office, family room, patio or other similar room we you can easily socially distance. Do not be alarmed if our social workers use personal protective equipment during this visit. The use of masks and gloves protect you and our social workers.
The home study process may take up to several months depending on how long child abuse background checks take to process. You may choose to schedule the mandatory walk through towards the end of the process, if you feel more comfortable then. The other required interviews may be conducted through technology, i.e. skype, zoom, telephone, etc.
So, if you are in need of a home study or a home study update, don’t hesitate to call our office and talk to us about our home study services. We are here for everyone and can help you through the entire home study process.
How can we get the required post placement visit and the adoption report done during this pandemic?
If you have any questions about an upcoming post placement or post adoption visit please contact our office. As with the home study, there are things you can be working on to prepare for the social worker’s visit. Our post adoption specialist is happy to answer any questions you may have. We expect to be able to make home visits to Utah families soon so that they can stay in compliance with required post adoption reports. However, in some instances countries are allowing the temporary use of technology to fulfill the post adoption requirements, instead of face to face interaction. Our post adoption specialist can help you navigate what your country is allowing at this time.
For others who live outside the State of Utah, there may still be restrictions in place, depending on your state of residence. Remember, you are not alone. We will coordinate with your home study agency to do everything possible to help you stay in compliance with post adoption requirements. Information and help is just a call away!!
How are intercountry adoptions continuing?
Even though it may seem like the world has come to a close, intercountry adoptions are still being processed. Most of the adoption process is tedious paperwork and a lot of waiting. There are a few services that are temporarily disrupted due to the pandemic. Countries are still preparing paperwork on children. Countries are still accepting paperwork from the adoptive parents. Countries are still making matches for children.
However, the time it takes countries to process paperwork may be slowed. This is true inside and outside the US. USCIS has temporarily suspended most consular services. However, adoption is considered a special circumstance and in most cases still being processed and visas are being issued. You may find that arranging travel has become difficult due to travel restrictions and quarantine requirements. We believe that these are temporary restrictions that may be lifted soon. Some countries are allowing for the adopted child to be escorted to the US. Talk to your program manager about all the adoptions. If you are just starting the process, the restrictions will most likely have been lifted long before it is time for you to travel.
Moving Forward
Please know that things are moving forward in spite of the pandemic and we are still here for our families. We are all dedicated and loyal to our mission, which is to help the forgotten children of the world find families who will protect them, love them, and give them the opportunity to succeed in life.
Leave a Reply