Building forever families shouldn’t be a financial burden for those yearning to be called mom or dad. To help remove barriers for Albertans who choose to start or grow their families through adoption, Alberta’s government is providing additional financial support for eligible families that will reduce adoption costs by as much as 50 per cent.

“As an adoptive parent myself, I know how challenging and expensive the adoption process can be. My heart aches for Albertans who’ve had to give up on starting or growing their family because adoption was financially out of reach. I’m so pleased this subsidy will help make adoption more affordable so more children can find their forever families.”

Searle Turton, Minister of Children and Family Services

While Alberta’s government covers the costs associated with adopting a child in government care, fees to adopt a child through an agency can range between $11,000 and $15,000. This subsidy will be available for families with a household income of less than $180,000 a year who completed a licensed private agency adoption in Alberta on or after April 1, 2023.

“In recognizing the profound impact of Alberta government’s adoption support initiatives, Adoption Options is grateful for the support provided to adoptive families. These initiatives not only transform the lives of children but also create a foundation for countless families to thrive, embodying the true spirit of community and compassion.”

Sheryl Proulx, executive director, Adoption Options

“A Small Miracle Adoption meets with many Albertans ready to open their hearts and give children a forever family. This subsidy shows government wants to help them do just that by alleviating financial stress.”

Edie Pendleton, executive director, A Small Miracle Adoption

Alberta’s government, through Budget 2023, is investing $4 million annually over the next three years in increased tax breaks and subsidies to help cover the costs of licensed agency adoptions and in supplementary health benefit coverage for children adopted in Alberta through government and licensed adoption agencies.

Quick facts

  • Currently, 20 children and youth in government care are waiting to be matched with loving, permanent homes.
  • Children and Family Services launched an adoption recruitment campaign in spring 2023 focusing on adopting children in government care.
    • Typically, there are about 100 approved families at any given time, but there are only about 34 now.

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