A Link to the World's Waiting Children.
The Adoption Center at Bellefaire JCB helps families adopt babies and children from around the world. Over the past decade, we have assisted in hundreds of international adoptive placements, uniting the world's waiting children with families eager to share their lifelong love and support.

Who are the children?
Children of all ages can be adopted from other countries. Like waiting children in the U.S., some children who are eligible for international adoption have special needs.

Where do they live?
Babies and children awaiting international adoption typically live in orphanages, foster homes, or group homes in countries in Europe, South and Central America, Asia, and Africa. During your home study, you will learn about the effects institutionalization has on children and how to help your adopted child thrive in your home. Each country maintains its own standards and policies for international adoption. Fees also vary from country to country.
Every child deserves a welcome home

What role does Bellefaire JCB play?
The Adoption Center at Bellefaire JCB is the link between adoptive families and international agencies, such as Holt International Children's Services (link). We perform required state and federal services to qualify you to adopt a child through international channels. These services range from International Adoption Hague Training, to initial consultation and home study through to post-placement and finalization.

How long does international adoption take?
Many factors affect the timeline for international adoption, including the policies and procedures of the country from which you are adopting, the child's background circumstances, and whether you are open to adopting a child with special needs. In general, international adoption takes from six months to two years from application to placement.

How much does it cost?
Fees related to international adoption are paid to Bellefaire JCB (the local agency) and to the placing agency (the international agency). Fees are charged at the time each service is rendered. Costs for travel are additional. International adoption is a costly process. However, there are a variety of ways to positively manage adoption expenses. Employee benefits, income tax credits, and loans are just a few.

How do we begin?
There are many factors and options to consider with regard to international adoption. A meeting with a Bellefaire JCB adoption assessor will help you better understand the process and how it relates to your wishes and expectations.

To learn more, call the Adoption Center at Bellefaire JCB.
Cleveland area: 216-932-2800
Toll free: 800-205-8534
Or email infoADP@bellefairejcb.org

This project funded in part by the US Department of Health and Human Services, Children's Bureau, Adoption Opportunity Demonstration Grant #90 CO 0995, Adoption in Ohio's Heartland.