What is an adoption subsidy, and what is the agency’s role?

• A. A private donor-funded grant.
• B. A state-assisted subsidy to support a child’s needs; the agency may assist with application, initiation, and ongoing monitoring.
• C. A program that covers only medical expenses.
• D. A tax credit program.

Answer: (C)

Adoption subsidy is financial support provided by the state to help meet a child’s ongoing needs after adoption, particularly when the child has special needs or requires extra services. The idea is to remove barriers to placing a child in a permanent home by ensuring families can afford the ongoing costs of care, education, therapy, medical services, and daily living needs.

The agency’s role is to guide families through the process and stay involved over time. This includes helping families understand eligibility, assisting with the application, initiating the subsidy, and conducting ongoing monitoring and reviews to ensure the subsidy continues to meet the child’s needs and complies with program rules. It’s broader than medical expenses and is distinct from donor grants or tax credits, which are separate forms of support.