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| Overview |
Ghana is a beautiful country about the size of Oregon, situated in the heart of West Africa. Unfortunately the economy has struggled and, like most African countries, the majority of people live in poverty. 45% of Ghana’s people live on less than $1 per day, and up to 60% of Ghana’s children are involved in child labor or child slavery.
Traditionally the extended family would take on orphaned family members. But in today’s Ghana many children (even toddlers) are left to fend for themselves on the streets.
The Ghana program is a new and emerging program. Experienced adoptive families may cope better with this program since there are unknowns. Ghana pilot families should be flexible and have a pioneering attitude that will help to pave the way for future families when unforeseen delays or changes in the process occur.
Children Available:
Most are children ages 2-3 years or older. Infant boys and special needs infant girls may
come into care from time to time, but this is not an “infant program.” There are
many sibling sets in need of adoption in Ghana. HIV+ children may be adopted from Ghana.
Despite difficult circumstances the children seem to have a positive outlook about their future
and life in general. Most all children in Ghana speak at least minimal English.
Parent Eligibility:
Married couples may apply to adopt from Ghana. Single women may apply to adopt on a
case by case basis, but will need to gain special permission from the Social Welfare
Department. Parents must be 25 years old and at least 21 years older than the child(ren) they
intend to adopt. Couples over 50 cannot adopt from Ghana. Families with up to 6 children
may adopt, but smaller families are preferred by Ghana Social Welfare for very young
children. Parents with more than 6 children may apply on a case by case basis for special
permission from Social Welfare. Parents with health issues and disabilities may adopt as long
as your doctor will support your decision to adopt. Previous divorce is allowed.
Referral Information:
Referral information includes at least one photo (sometimes video), and all available social
and medical information. Children are tested for HIV, Hep B, sickle cell, and TB before
referral. Some agencies may have a DVD of waiting children available for families.
Travel:
There are several travel options with this program. Families may either make two trips 4-6
weeks apart, one short trip with escort, or one longer (2-3 week) trip. Full escort is also
available.
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| To contact all agencies placing children from Ghana with just one form, click here |
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