Lane #

Boy, Age: 15
Primary Diagnosis: Older Child
Listed: Jan 2025
**** I am eligible for a $500 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount. To inquire about this child, email [email protected] ***
Lane
Older child-healthy with no known needs
Lane lived with his birth family until age 10. He now lives in a transitional group home and was just registered for adoption. He has very little time to find a family. He has expressed a desire to be adopted!
Lane plays table tennis and competes with a team, attending competitions and other events. He also enjoys playing soccer, watching scary movies, playing video games, listening to music and reading books. The team at the center describes him as gentle, kind, non-aggressive. They say that he is easy to guide, accepts the directions of adults and follows them. They say that he is executive and obedient. He communicates well with the other children in the instruction, he is used to having both older and younger children around him, he loves to play and take care of them.

Margo and Gabi #

Girl, Age: 2
Listed: Jan 2025
$125.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Margo
Polymalformative syndrome: Congenital internal hydrocephalus and brain malformation with atrophy of the cerebral lobes and cerebellum; Implantation of the VPS. Hydronephrosis IIIst. on the right with renal calculus; pyeloplasty. Persistent foramen ovale and arterial duct. Symptomatic epilepsy Grand mal seizures. Spastic quadriparesis. Microcephaly. Severe neuropsychiatric development delay

Gabi
Short bowel syndrome. Abnormalities of absorption after surgery. Small bowel insufficiency. Condition after necrotizing enterocolitis. Condition after surgical intervention – termino-lateral ileo-colic anastomosis. Allergy to cow’s milk protein. Cavernous hemangioma on the right side of the face. Condition after: Prematurity IV degree. Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome. Retinopathy of prematurity. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Retention in the neuropsychological development. Hypotrophy II degree

Adam & Vinny #

Boy, Age: 5
Primary Diagnosis: Autism
Delays, Autism
Listed: Jan 2025
$20.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
The boys lived with their birth family until they were 22 months old. They were removed from the birth family and placed in foster care at that time.

Adam has been diagnosed with an intellectual delay, but he continues to make progress in all aspects of his development and learn new skills. His gross motor skills are developmentally appropriate for his age. He can walk, run, climb, etc. His fine motor skills are slightly delayed. He nests nesting boards according to the principle trial and error. He can build a tower with 10 blocks. He can draw a circle but he can’t draw an emoticon. He can string and sort small figures. He cuts with scissors, forms worms out of playdoh and cuts them. He currently cannot copy shapes and letters according to a pattern. His attention span when working on tasks continues to increase. He has a well-developed visual memory. He will imitate gestures and movements. He can group objects by color and shape, but cannot currently identify colors and shapes by name. He understands what is said to him and can follow one step directions. He has pretend play skills. He can easily navigate in familiar environments. His speech is still developing. He can say some simple words and attempts to communicate using gestures. He is currently attending preschool, and has adjusted well to this environment. He participates in group activities and plays with the other children. He enjoys playing with playdough and participating in music and games. He helps clean up after activities. His self-help skills are developing. He is toilet trained. He is working with specialists to continue to develop his skills.

Vinny has been diagnosed with childhood Autism, but continues to make progress and learn new skills. He can walk, run, climb, throw and kick a ball. He can build a tower with 10 cubes, he strings and sorts small figures. He cuts with scissors and he tries to cut along a drawn line. He has difficulties doing puzzles. He has difficulty concentrating during certain tasks. He is more focused and attentive during activities related to language educational games and modelling with playdoh. He has a strongly pronounced mechanical memory. He has difficulties making the relation between a symbol and a word. He compares objects by color and shape but does not recognize or name them. He understands single-step commands. He participates in role games (he puts a doll to bed and tucks her in). When he sees pictures with objects from everyday life (a broom, glass, spoon) he shows the activities that he performs with them. His speech is delayed (he says very few words), but he attempts to communicate using gestures. He demonstrates attachment to his caregivers and gets along with other children at preschool. He enjoys playing with playdough and educational cards. His self-help skills are developing. He is toilet trained. He is working with specialists to continue to develop his skills.

Marla #

Girl, Age: 3
Primary Diagnosis: Craniofacial disorder
congenital cleft of hard and soft palate-corrected; strabismus; cognitive delays
Listed: Jan 2025
$13.50
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Marla was born with a congenital cleft of hard and soft palate, which was surgically corrected at 8 months of age. She has strabismus, which is being corrected with glasses. Her report states, “Atactic cerebral palsy – under discussion”. She is now walking short distances. Her report also states, “An initial diagnosis of moderate mental retardation is not confirmed.”

Marla has made tremendous progress, according to her foster mother. From the foster mother, “Marla distinguishes familiar from unfamiliar people, but is no longer afraid of unfamiliar people. She allows the people who take care of her to hug her; she gives a kiss with her hand to those she likes. She has started to communicate with other children and share her toys with them. However, in general, she is distrustful – she carefully examines every person and everything she does not know. She takes independent steps, stands upright, sits steadily, walks holding hands for a longer time. She is afraid of cars. She loves dogs.”

Owyn #

Boy, Age: 3
Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus
Listed: Jan 2025
$0.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Precious Owyn is looking for a special family.

He is diagnosed with hydrocephalus and has some other medical issues that require in-depth care. The adoption agency has a lot more photos and more information about his needs and video footage.  A specific adoption agency also has grant funding in the amount of $2500 available.

Jordy and Mike #

Sibling Group
Ages: 11, 14
Primary Diagnosis: Older Child
Listed: Jan 2025
**** I am eligible for a $500 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount. To inquire about this child, email [email protected] ***
Jordy and Mike are ready for a family.  Agency staff who met them said, “they are clinically healthy and very well behaved and raised children. They are doing great at school on many subjects which is rare in general for abandoned children. The fact that they have been raised in foster care by a nice family, is definitely helping them.”

Please consider bringing these boys into your family for the New Year.  The agency has a lot more photos and information and videos to see these great boys!  A specific adoption agency has grant funding in the amount of $2500 available.

Morty #

Boy, Age: 9
Primary Diagnosis: Epilepsy/ seizure disorder
grand mal seizures
Listed: Jan 2025
$0.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Morty is looking for a very loving family who has time to spend helping with his needs. He has been diagnosed with grand mal seizures and takes medication for this. He has other delays in all aspects of his development.  The agency has video available, for inquiring families.

Kevin

Boy, Age: 6
Country Code: SE.Asia.Pac
Region: South Asia
Primary Diagnosis: Autism
Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder with Global Delays that include language and cognitive impairments, microcephaly and absent sagittal suture

Developmental Evaluation:  mild to moderate delays in the gross motor, fine motor-adaptive, language and personal– social skills

Listed: Jan 2025
$0.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!

The agency has pictures available for seriously inquiring families — Kevin is ADORABLE!

Kevin is an adorable and friendly boy who can confidently play with familiar children the neighborhood. Kevin hums when he hears music or when he is watching television. He enjoys watching nursery rhymes on YouTube. Kevin is diagnosed with autism and with global developmental delays that include language and cognitive impairments. He also has microcephaly and an absent sagittal suture. Kevin has mild to moderate gross motor, fine motor (adaptive), language, and social skills. We’re hoping there is a special family out there for this precious boy! Could that family be yours?

Julia

Girl, Age: 5
Country Code: Asia.4
Region: Asia
Listed: Jan 2025
$0.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
5-year-old Julia has made wonderful progress with her speech and developmental delays!

Julia has been diagnosed with autism, speech and developmental delays. Since receiving rehabilitation services at her preschool, she has now met her gross motor skill goals. She has good fine motor skills, including wonderful handwriting for a 5-year-old. Her speech has improved since starting preschool and especially since receiving speech therapy. She can now express her thoughts, wants and needs in complete coherent sentences, and her social skills are improving as well.

Julia was in the same foster home from the time she was 21 months old until September 2024 when her foster mother could no longer care for her due to personal reasons unrelated to Julia. Julia was used to going to respite care and that has helped her ability to settle into her new foster home. She has expressed her care for her new foster mother by telling her “Auntie, I like you very much” and has been able to show affection to the new foster mother. She has also felt able to share her opinions and concerns with the new foster mother such as when she felt the assistant caregiver was not treating her the same as another child.

Symptoms of autism have been mild as Julia is a lovely, cheerful, friendly and talkative child.  She can be stubborn at times. She has a tendency to be repetitive in her play such as writing the numbers 1 to 10 repeatedly. She also shows so egocentrism, as well as a lack of concern for others. For example, during a social worker visit, the foster mother accidentally fell from her chair and Julia did not show any concern about this matter. On the other hand, she reciprocates the love and concern that the foster mother shows her at bedtime. She enjoys playing with her foster mother, and also has a good relationship with her foster father.

Due to the country’s unique child/family matching process, a family with a valid home study for any country can be considered for this child. The agency will need to review the country’s process as well as ensure the home study agency is willing to complete additional paperwork needed by the country. It is important to note the agency does not match children and families in this country, but rather submits a family’s information for consideration if they meet eligibility to be submitted.

Amelia #

Girl, Age: 9
Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus with Verticulo-territorial shunt implantation; delayed in her physical and neuropsychological development
Listed: Jan 2025
$90.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Amelia is reported to be “just as sweet as she can be.” The agency has a new report from November 2024 as well as photos & videos that can be shared with inquiring families.

A specific agency also has grant funding available in the amount of $2500.

Bodhi #

Boy, Age: 9
Primary Diagnosis: Autism, Deaf / HoH
moderate mental delays with autistic spectrum disorder; bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, cochlear implant; strabismus
Listed: Jan 2025
$0.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
The agency has video available; a specific agency has a $2500 grant available for his adoption.

Keenan #

Boy, Age: 16
Primary Diagnosis: Older Child
Listed: Jan 2025
**** I am eligible for a $500 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount. To inquire about this child, email [email protected] ***
Keenan is a typically developing young boy, he is said to be a very kind, 15 year old boy.  He loves to play football.

A family needs to be registered already in his country, and have USCIS approval for an older boy, as he turns 16 in January 2025.

Sophie

Girl, Age: 8
Country Code: Asia.4
Region: Asia
Listed: Dec 2024
$0.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Sophie is a gentle, cheerful, and agreeable 8-year-old girl. She loves listening to music and is attracted to various sensory toys and materials. When her caregivers and teachers play music, she becomes attentive and smiles. Sophie has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy with multiple medical conditions. She requires daily medications and intensive medical follow-up in various specialties. She needs support and assistance with mobility and daily living activities. In the face of her challenges, Sophie works hard to participate in different training sessions and therapies including physiotherapy and occupational therapy.

Sophie loves people. She can be easily comforted by hugging, gentle stroke, and comforting words. Sophie expresses herself nonverbally. She nods or smiles when she likes something, and pouts or frowns when she does not. She joyously participates in the activities the caregivers and teachers give her such as sunbathing outside and sensory activities. Her caregivers and teachers report that she is easy to care for and manage because of her calm nature and generally stable health condition. She also adjusts to changes quickly and easily.

It is believed Sophie will continue to make progress in reaching her potential within a loving and caring family. Due to the unique child/family matching system in her country, a family with a current home study for any country can submit to be considered to become her family.

Adrena

Girl, Age: 15
Country Code: LA-2
Primary Diagnosis: Older Child, Trauma History
Listed: Dec 2024
**** I am eligible for a $500 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount. To inquire about this child, email [email protected] ***
Adrena, who is now 15, came into care with her older sister when it was discovered that she and her sister were being abused in their home. Her sister is now aged-out of the system and while they stayed in touch initially, unfortunately they do not know her current whereabouts. While Adrena is clinically healthy, she has a lot of trauma in her past and will need at least counseling when she joins a new family to help her work through her past and transition into the new family and life.

This report is two years old, from when Adrena was 13; she is now at risk for aging out, as she is 15 years old.
Adrena is starting 9th grade. She is one of the best students of her class. The teachers have stated that Adrena is known for being responsible, respectful, helpful, kind, and always willing to learn new things. She feels comfortable being the leader of a group of peers within the academic environment. She is an independent girl who fulfill her daily routines without any help or supervision. Adrena takes good care of her personal belongings and has great hygiene habits. Whenever a task is difficult for her, she keeps trying and does her best to finish it. She can stay focused on one task and does not like to leave anything unfinished. Adrena recognizes authority figures, and she is respectful and obedient towards them.

There are no concerns regarding Adrena’s motor, language, cognitive and social development. She loves to give and receive affection from people who are emotionally close to her. Adrena gets shy when meeting people, and she usually waits until someone else takes the initiative to start a conversation. It is hard for her to express her feelings and emotions to people she is not familiar with. She interacts positively with adults, peers, younger children, and animals, but has stated that she prefers to interact with peers and not so much with younger children. Adrena is able to handle her emotions, frustrations and impulses in an age-appropriate manner. According to the foster mother, she is usually happy, does not get mad easily and is not anxious. Adrena has stated that she is afraid of being placed with her biological father again. When asked what her ideal family would be, she said one with a mom, dad, older sister and a dog of her own.

Adrena loves to spend time outside playing sports, especially soccer and volleyball. She likes to eat out, and while she doesn’t have a favorite food, she likes to try new things. She also likes to paint, do arts and crafts, and listen to hip-hop music. Adrena wants to go to college even though she does not yet have a clear idea of what area/subject she likes the best.

Alden #

Boy, Age: 7
Occlusive Ventricular Hydrocephalus and congenital heart malformations.
Listed: Dec 2024
$0.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Please meet Alan.  He is quite a smiley boy from all his photos we have received.

Alan responds positively to teasing and simple games with an adult. Interactions with him are at the level of simple games. He accepts teasing and shows his enjoyment by perking up and expressing positive emotion. He reacts emotionally when he is around other children.

He does not utter meaningful words.  He has no established habits and skills for self-care. He is fully cared for by staff.  He sleeps and wakes calmly.

Vinnie #

Boy, Age: 4
Primary Diagnosis: Cerebral palsy, Hydrocephalus
Spastic cerebral palsy. Communicating hydrocephalus. Severe mental delays. Intermittent heterotropia
Listed: Dec 2024
$90.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!

Kyle #

Boy, Age: 8
Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus
Microcephaly. External hydrocephalus. Delay in neuropsychological development. Moderate mental delays. Suspicion for Seckel’s syndrome
Listed: Dec 2024
$0.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!

Evan #

Boy, Age: 10
Primary Diagnosis: Cerebral palsy, Limb differences
Spastic cerebral palsy, severe. Moderate mental delay. Congenital malformations of the foot
Listed: Dec 2024
$0.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!

Hans

Boy, Age: 5
Country Code: LA-2
Hydrocephalus; Epilepsy; Cerebral palsy; Macrocephaly, hip dislocation; gastrostomy
Listed: Nov 2024
$16.20
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Information in this report is from November 2024

Hans was born to a young teenage girl who, tragically, had already given birth to a child at a very young age. Due to her chronological age and emotional immaturity the mother was not able to fully understand her responsibility, and despite the support of her family, the bond between Hans and his mother was not positive. After Protection Services became involved, it was evident that the biological mother and her family were not able to take care of the child due to his special needs, economic struggles and already caring for Hans’s older sibling. He, therefore, came into care at the age of 3 years old. There is no information about the biological father.

Hans is not enrolled in school due to his medical diagnoses. Hans loves to receive affection, and he responds through smiles. He is totally dependent on others to fulfill his daily routines. He communicates through guttural sounds, screams or by crying. Hans cries whenever his diaper is dirty. Hans´s gross and fine motor skills are not developed. The child cannot hold his head up, and he cannot crawl or walk. He has some body movements, and the foster mother has received training on how to stimulate his motor development. He does not like to be held and prefers when people change his body position without holding him for too long. Due to Hans’s medical diagnosis, he has a severe cognitive delay and is not able to interact with other children. Hans receives occupational, physical and speech therapy. Hans takes daily medication.

Hans likes to listen to soft music. He needs a family who can always take care of him due to the severity of his condition.

Everly

Girl, Age: 2
Country Code: LA-2
Primary Diagnosis: Global developmental delays
High neurological risk, Encephalopathy, Hypoxic ischemic, Diffuse atrophy by neuroimaging, Global neurodevelopmental delay, Hypotonia, Movement disorder, Swallowing disorder, Strabismus, Moderate acute malnutrition
Listed: Nov 2024
$0.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!

Everly is an adorable little girl with a bright smile. Everly was born prematurely, and has several special needs. She loves bath time. She also loves affection. Everly is continuing to grow and develop. We hope a loving family sees her while she is so young.

Elsa

Girl, Age: 11
Country Code: E-11
Region: Europe
Primary Diagnosis: ADHD, Learning Disability
attention deficit/Academic school disorder
Listed: Nov 2024
$1,291.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
This lovely older girl has an ADHD/ learning disability diagnosis.  She could do great with a family to help her with her schoolwork!

Eloise

Girl, Age: 1
Congenital right clubfoot, Spina Bifida, Hydrocephalus- ventriculoperitoneal shunt, Congenital bilateral hip dislocation – hip reduction plus harness
Listed: Nov 2024
$0.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Eloise is a joyful, affectionate, and calm child, who enjoys the simple pleasures of life such as music, dancing, and storytelling. Her sunny disposition radiates through her interactions, whether she’s playing freely in the park, lying peacefully on the grass, or engaging with her peers. Despite any initial nervousness around new people, her warm and gentle demeanor quickly puts others at ease, leading to the formation of close emotional bonds, particularly with her foster mother.

Eloise’s ability to communicate her needs and emotions through gestures and sounds demonstrates her keen self-awareness, and her empathetic nature is evident when she comforts her loved ones. Though faced with medical challenges, Eloise has proven to be remarkably resilient.

VIDEOS:
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-eloise01
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-eloise02
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-eloise03
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-eloise04
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-eloise05
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-eloise06

Password:  Adoptmaa

Agency fee reductions may be available based on the adoptive family’s circumstances.

Katy

Girl, Age: 4
Country Code: LA-3
Primary Diagnosis: Other Special Needs
Mucopolysaccharidosis syndrome type IV, and mild cognitive scoliosis
Listed: Nov 2024
$0.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Katy is a very intelligent and curious girl.  She loves going to the pool on sunny days.  Her favorite foods are soup and smoothies.

Martin & Rafael

Sibling Group
Ages: 10, 6
Country Code: LA-3
Primary Diagnosis: Learning Disability
developmental delays
Listed: Nov 2024
$1,018.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Martin was born in 2018; he is a curious and playful kid.  He likes playing outside and loves to eat hot dogs and to drink fresh juice.  Martin has mild developmental delays and attends a regular school.

 

Older brother Rafael (born in 2014), likes being outside and jumping on the trampoline.  He loves chicken, rice, and cake.  Rafael has developmental delays and is currently attending a special education school.

Valeria

Girl, Age: 13
Country Code: LA-3
microcephaly, epilepsy
Listed: Nov 2024
**** I am eligible for a $5000 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount!
To inquire about this child, email [email protected] ***
Valeria is a very protective girl.  She loves drawing and doing art projects.  Valeria currently has a feeding tube.

Valeria was previously listed on Reece’s Rainbow as Marisol.

Steven

Boy, Age: 15
Country Code: LA-3
Primary Diagnosis: Blind / VI
Blind in one eye, autism
Listed: Jul 2019
**** I am eligible for a $5000 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount!
To inquire about this child, email [email protected] ***
Steven is receiving therapy to help him develop his communication and interpersonal skills. He loves to swim, swing, and play with his special stuffed animals. He loves chicken noodle soup, plantains, and anything sweet.

The adoption agency has more detailed information on this child that they can share with potential families.

Steven was previously listed on Reece’s Rainbow as James.

Melissa

Girl, Age: 12
Country Code: LA-3
Primary Diagnosis: Genetic Condition (non-DS)
Cornelia de lange syndrome
Listed: Jul 2019
**** I am eligible for a $5000 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount!
To inquire about this child, email [email protected] ***
$3,632.10
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Melissa is an extremely loving girl!  She enjoys playing with her dolls.  Although she likes all food, she loves chicken and rice.

Melissa has a diagnosis of Cornelia de Lange syndrome, which causes developmental delays.  She continues to make progress with therapy.

Melissa was previously listed on Reece’s Rainbow as “Lucia.”

Cheyenne

Girl, Age: 12
Country Code: LA-2
Mild cognitive delay
Listed: Nov 2024
**** I am eligible for a $5000 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount!
To inquire about this child, email [email protected] ***

Information in this report is from March 2024

Cheyenne, 12, came into care in 2020 when her mother left her with a woman and it became clear that she was not returning. In the child investigation, it was discovered that Cheyenne had been the victim of abuse by both a non-family member when she was young and a minor relative though there is not much information regarding the later situation. Due to being moved around so much and the chaotic environment of the biological family, Cheyenne was not consistently enrolled in school which has affected her cognitive development.  Cheyenne is now enrolled in school, and she is in 4th grade where she is respectful, responsible, and motivated at school. In 2023, she was given an IQ test and scored 63, which led to a diagnosis of mild cognitive delay.  At the age of 11 when the test was performed, it was estimated that she had the cognitive development and maturation of a 7-year-old.  She goes to cognitive therapy to overcome her diagnosis of mild cognitive delay due to the family environment she grew up in.

Cheyenne has adjusted well to her foster family and being in a positive family environment. For example, while she likely did not attend religious services in the past, she enthusiastically attends Catholic services with her foster family and participates in spiritual activities such as praying the rosary with the family. Her foster family has helped her work on her social development, interaction with others, taking responsibility for her actions in a positive way, etc. It is noted that Cheyenne had a habit of lying to avoid negative consequences; however, great improvements were made in this area. While she still gets anxious when confronted about any inappropriate behaviors, Cheyenne is no longer afraid to accept the consequences of her actions. It is upsetting to her when someone lies about her. She is cooperative and strives to be obedient, and she is getting better at managing her emotions, impulses, and frustrations. She gets sad when others positively talk about their biological families, and she just wants to find her forever family. She is afraid of feeling alone.

Cheyenne is very affectionate and sweet. She is friendly and has wonderful skills to be a leader inside and outside her foster home. Cheyenne interacts positively with adults, peers, younger children, and animals. Cheyenne is quiet and feels good when she finishes the tasks assigned to her. She is independent and fulfills her daily routines on her own.

Cheyenne enjoys participating in recreational or playful activities with her peers. She especially likes riding her bicycle and playing soccer. She also likes to draw and dance. Cheyenne loves to eat spaghetti, rice with chicken, and oatmeal, but she does not like to eat broccoli. Cheyenne has stated that she would love to become a Chef to express her love through food.

Dezi

Boy, Age: 6
Country Code: LA-2
severe mental delay, significant behavioral disorders, overall developmental delay, overall developmental disorder, epilepsy, Soto Syndrome
Listed: Oct 2024
$0.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Information in this report is from July 2024:

Dezi lived with his biological parents and older sibling until he was almost four years old. While his parents tried to take care of him, money was always lacking and ultimately, his parents knew they could not meet Dezi’s healthcare needs. In order for him to get all the help he needs and to have a better life, his parents relinquished him to protective care services in July 2022.

Due to the child´s medical diagnosis, he is not enrolled in school. There were two times were Dezi attended a special school, but his needs were much greater than what the teachers could manage. Dezi´s adjustment to a foster home was challenging but his current foster mother has done a great job with him. He has developed a strong bond with his foster mother and regulates his emotions in accordance with what she is doing or how close she is to him. He is now able to give and receive affection, which is a great achievement, and he even sometimes gets jealous when his foster mother pays attention to the other children. Dezi’s language is almost nonexistent, but he says a few words such as “ma.” He communicates mostly through facial gestures and by pointing at things he wants to grab or do. When Dezi gets upset, he cries and has “tantrums,” throws objects, and lays himself on the floor. Dezi is not comfortable being around people he is not familiar with. If he likes somebody, he will usually pull that person by the arm to start a game. Dezi likes to play with other children for short periods, and he is not aggressive towards them. He gets anxious when he is not familiar with an environment. He gets upset when he is not allowed to do something or eat at different moments throughout the day.

Dezi is very active, he changes from one activity to another in short periods, it is very hard for him to focus his attention on one specific thing. There are no concerns regarding his gross motor development, he is still working on his fine motor skills. He needs guidance and support to fulfill his daily routines though there are some activities that he can do on his own, such as eating with no help and dressing up. He sleeps throughout the night without any inconvenience. Dezi does not wear diapers during the day as he can go to the bathroom alone but needs help to clean himself up; he wears diapers during the night. He does not like animals.

Dezi’s favorite show is Paw Patrol. He gets happy when he gets new toys, especially cars even though toys do not usually last a long time because he plays roughly with them. He likes to wear clothes with Superman logos or drawings. Dezi has a good appetite and eats every kind of food. He likes to play with water.

Nicholas

Boy, Age: 6
Country Code: LA-2
Primary Diagnosis: Autism
alleged autism during childhood, unspecified behavioral issues, neurofibromatosis (non-malignant), acromegaly and pituitary gigantism, overall developmental delay, and allergic rhinitis
Listed: Oct 2024
$0.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
(Information below is from March 2023 when Nicolas had just turned 4 years old.)

Nicholas was placed in a foster home when he entered protective care as a newborn due to familial issues. He is now enrolled in pre-k. Due to his complex medical condition, his academic development is limited. Nicholas tries to be independent in some daily activities, such as dressing himself, but for the rest of his care he needs constant supervision, support, and guidance both due to his age, his developmental delay and suspected autism.

Nicholas is a loving and affectionate child toward people he knows and he expresses his love through kisses, hugs, and by clapping. He has a strong need to be near his foster parents and sometimes gets jealous when they are holding another child. He does not like to be around too many people or in places where the noise is too loud. If he is interested in interacting with an adult, he will find a way to call for attention. He communicates through sounds, screams, and some syllables. Sometimes Nicholas gets upset when toys or objects are not organized or placed in the same spot he left them. Nicholas needs an adult to supervise his behavior while he is interacting with other kids, as he needs someone to remind him to behave positively and be patient with others.

Nicholas is constantly moving around and loves to explore his surroundings. He gets easily frustrated when his daily schedule changes. He is very interested in water and on many occasions, he has submerged objects or documents in water. It is reported that his body movements appear to be tough and not well coordinated. He is able to follow simple instructions. He can play with toys and other objects and his fine motor skills are still developing. He spends his time organizing toys and objects by color and size. He is afraid of climbing up and down the stairs. Nicholas still wears diapers but is currently being potty-trained. He goes to bed around 10:00 pm and wakes up at 6:30 am. It is important to give him his medication in the evenings before bedtime. Nicholas loves to listen to music, eat, and explore cell phones.

Fera

Girl, Age: 14
Country Code: LA-2
Listed: Oct 2024
**** I am eligible for a $500 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount. To inquire about this child, email [email protected] ***
Information in this report is from April 2024 (Fera was 13 at the time).

Fera did not attend school until 2021 but has already progressed to the fifth grade! Her academic development has been great. She gets anxious when she has tests at school or when she is asked about her Indigenous community. It bothers her when she is not able to complete homework on her own. Fera recognizes authority figures; she is respectful and obedient toward them, including her teachers. She can stay focused on one specific task and follow simple and complex instructions.

Fera is known to be very responsible. She is an independent girl, who does not require help to fulfill her daily routines; she is a great helper around her foster home. She has good sleep and eating habits. Fera manages her impulses and frustration in accordance with her chronological age. She is usually calm and collected. When situations bother her, she simply moves to a different place and abstains from any interaction. Fera takes good care of her personal belongings and is well organized. She has good hygiene habits.

There are no concerns regarding Fera’s motor, language, cognitive and social development. Fera is currently clinically healthy, she does not take any medication. Due to a tuberculosis episode, she goes from time to time to see the pneumologist. While she is clinically healthy, it is important to realize that all children available for adoption has a history of trauma and likely will need psychological/mental health services once they are home.

Fera is shy by nature—she is quiet and takes her time to feel comfortable and interact with others. She is very selective with her group of friends or people she trusts. She keeps a low profile and does not feel comfortable being the leader of group. She is able to give and receive affection, and she does not get jealous when her foster parents pay attention to the other children. She interacts positively with adults, peers, younger children, and animals. Seeing homeless children or stray animals wandering on the street makes Fera sad. She is also afraid of the dark and deep waters.

Fera enjoys spending time with her friends, especially when she gets to go to the pool or the river with them. She especially likes going to birthday parties she is invited to at times. She also enjoys simple things like going for a walk. Fera is talented at painting. She says would like to become a veterinarian and take a beauty course to learn how to do different hairstyles.

Evan and Michael

Sibling Group
Ages: 13, 15
Primary Diagnosis: Older Child
Listed: Oct 2024
**** I am eligible for a $500 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount. To inquire about this child, email [email protected] ***
 EVAN — Diagnosis: clinically healthy
MICHAEL — Diagnosis: clinically healthy IQ71

Kortni and Kevin #

Sibling Group
Ages: 14, 13
Primary Diagnosis: Older Child
Listed: Oct 2024
**** I am eligible for a $500 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount. To inquire about this child, email [email protected] ***
 KORTNI
Diagnosis: Other mixed disorders in behavior and emotions.
 KEVIN
Diagnosis: Other mixed disorders in behavior and emotions. Kidney stone with ureteral stone.

Everett #

Boy, Age: 13
Primary Diagnosis: Autism
autism and severe delays in intellectual functioning; non-verbal
Listed: Oct 2024
$1,000.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Everett resides in a center for children. He is a healthy, good-looking boy who has autism with severe delays in intellectual functioning. He makes sounds but has no speech skills. He shows stereotypical mannerisms of rocking, hand fluttering, and hyperactivity. He plays by himself and does not interact with others. He seldom reacts to his name. Sometimes he self-harms or shows frustration. He does not sustain attention for very long. He needs assistance in feeding, clothing and self-care. He needs close attention. He needs a loving family.

Videos are available.

Mell

Boy, Age: 3
Country Code: LA-2
Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus, Spina bifida
bilateral hip dysplasia with congenital hip dislocation, congenital hydrocephalus, lumbosacral meningocele corrected, congenital malformation of the corpus callosum, hypermetropy (far-sightedness), and malnutrition.
Listed: Oct 2024
$35.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Info from March 2024:

When Mell was born, his biological parents tried to take care of him even with his special needs, but they lived in a small town far away from cities and hospitals. At his one month check-up, he was diagnosed with congenital malformation of the spinal cord, hydrocephalus, low weight, fetal growth delay, and respiratory syndrome. At one of his following check-ups, the doctor sent Mell to the hospital due to a high fever and inflammation of the brain. Sadly, though they had tried, his parents recognized that they did not have the means of caring for him in the ways he needed, both due to finances and distance from necessary medical care, and they asked Protective Services to care for him. No other family members were able to provide the care he needed as well. Mell was placed in a foster home and is doing well.

Mell has been receiving various types of therapies which have been valuable in his development. When meeting adults for the first time, he becomes shy, but he recognizes familiar people and loves to interact with them. Mell identifies the emotions on people´s faces and interacts accordingly. He is a very expressive child who shows affection in various ways, and sometimes gets jealous when his foster mother gives affection to the other children. According to the professionals who care for him, Mell has the language development of a 12-month toddler. He communicates through crying and screaming and can say some short words such as “mama” and “papa.” He also imitates animal sounds, such as those of a dog or cat. He responds to simple instructions such “Take this” and “Give me that.” Mell identifies different body parts, plays with Play-Dough, and performs other activities that strengthen his fine motor skills. His movements are spontaneous despite the limitations he has in his lower limbs.  Due to his chronological age, Mell requires support, supervision, and guidance to fulfill his daily routines. Mell takes two naps during the day and sleeps throughout the night. He wears diapers all day.

Mell likes to interact with peers or adults and loves to spend time outside. He gets excited when he hears a motorcycle engine as he immediately thinks he is going to go out and gets anxious. He gets upset when his diaper is dirty and when he is not allowed to go out. Mell gets happy with simple things, and he likes to laugh a lot. Mell loves to drink sweet juices. Due to his medical condition, he does not wear shoes but wears very soft socks. He enjoys it when adults help him to kick the ball to play soccer. Mell also likes to play with cars and airplanes.

Lilian and Sonny

Sibling Group
Ages: 9, 6
Country Code: LA-7
Sonny is a quadriplegic child with cerebral palsy and epilepsy.
Listed: Oct 2024
$520.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!

Lilian is described as happy and communicative girl who is very creative. She interacts positively with adults and other children. She is currently in the fifth grade where she is known to be a good student.

Sonny is a quiet boy though he smiles and babbles to communicate with others. He is a quadriplegic child with cerebral palsy and epilepsy.

The agency can attempt to obtain additional information for interested families.

Jana

Girl, Age: 7
Country Code: LA-2
Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18 by translocation) and pulmonary dysplasia, fully dependent on oxygen. Epilepsy, gastroesophageal reflux without esophagitis, nausea and vomiting, urinary tract infection, gastrostomy, congenital malformation syndromes associated mainly with short stature, hypothyroidism, and spastic cerebral palsy.
Listed: Oct 2024
$610.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!

Information in this report is from March 2023 when Jana was 5. The adoption agency has medical records and pictures for Jana dating back to 2019.

Jana entered care at one year of age due to abandonment and negligence. Within her foster home, it is evident that Jana likes to interact with others. In her own special way, Jana is able to share and receive affection. She communicates with others through body language and eye movements. The foster mother has learned to read her body movements to identify if something is bothering her. Jana responds to stimuli generated through loud voices. Due to her medical diagnoses, she needs constant supervision and guidance to fulfill all her daily routines. Jana´s gross and fine motor development is delayed. Her cognitive development is severely damaged due to her medical diagnoses. She wears diapers all day. Jana spends her days seated in her wheelchair or laying down in her bed when she sleeps. She receives therapy and medication through her gastrostomy.

According to the foster mother, Jana loves to receive massages. She likes when people speak to her in a soft voice. Jana enjoys going outside for short periods.

Declan

Boy, Age: 7
Country Code: LA-2
Primary Diagnosis: Down syndrome
Down syndrome
Listed: Oct 2024
*** I am eligible for an additional $5,000 Grant from Reece’s Rainbow! Through June 2025, children with Down syndrome ages 6-9 are eligible for a $5000 Older Child Grant! ***
$639.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Our sweet Delcan, was born in May of 2017 with Down Syndrome. We are so excited to share his referral with interested families.

There is a $1,000 agency fee reduction for Declan’s adoption with a specific agency. Additional agency fee reductions may be available based on the adoptive family’s circumstances.

VIDEOS:
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-declan10
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-declan11

Password: Adoptmaa

Rose and Sawyer #

Sibling Group
Ages: 15, 14
Listed: Sep 2024
**** I am eligible for a $500 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount. To inquire about this child, email [email protected] ***
Rose
Diagnosis: school skills disorder
SAWYER
Diagnosis: school skills disorder. Other mixed behavioral and emotional disorders

Bayo #

Boy, Age: 15
Listed: Sep 2024
**** I am eligible for a $500 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount. To inquire about this child, email [email protected] ***

Bayo  is a healthy teen. In 2016, he was diagnosed with epilepsy and remains under treatment with Convulex which appears to be effective. In light of being overweight, Bayo has made a serious effort to increase his physical activity which has improved his overall health and coordination. Bayo lives in an exceptionally caring and engaged foster family, but his social and family history is unclear at this time.

Benevolent and helpful, Bayo seeks and maintains positive relationships with peers and is interested in joint activities, such as games. Moreover, he is preferred and respected among peers and has created his own circle of friends. Bayo is respectful toward adults and generally observes the accepted rules and norms. Bayo communicates well and is described as empathetic, forgiving and friendly. He shows abstract, imaginative, and causal thinking and receives good grades in school, completing the 23/24 school year with a GPA of “very good.” Bayo’s academic success is slightly hampered by a short attention span and difficulty with focus, but he is motivated to improve and responds well to praise and incentives. As he moves toward adulthood, Bayo needs guidance in forming a realistic self-assessment, respecting personal boundaries, and discerning who is and isn’t trustworthy.

Bayo takes guitar lessons twice a week and shows his musical artistry in concerts. He is a fan of rock music and has acquired serious knowledge on this subject. His attitude toward adoption is variable.

Kevin #

Boy, Age: 2
Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus, Spina bifida
Congenital anomaly of the nervous system: internal hydrocephaly; condition after ventriculo-peritoneal anastomosis implantation. Holoprosencephaly. Lumbosacral spina bifida aperta; condition after plastic surgery. Lower flaccid paraplegia. Pelvic-reservoir incontinence. Delayed neuro-psychic development
Listed: Sep 2024
$614.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Kevin can sit on his own. He plays with toys. He interacts positively with caregivers. He makes some sounds, but is not yet saying any words.

Nate

Boy, Age: 4
Country Code: LA-7
Primary Diagnosis: Cerebral palsy
Premature birth, Cerebral palsy
Listed: Sep 2024
$22.50
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Information in this report is from Summer 2024:

Nate was born prematurely at 27 weeks gestation and was hospitalized for two months. After living with his mother for two months, he came into protective care at 4 months old after his mother abandoned him in the care of a neighbor. Initially she visited him occasionally, but the last visit was in 2022. Nate lives with a foster family.

Nate has unidentified cerebral palsy, but it doesn’t hold him down! While at 8- months-old he showed significant delays in neuro-psychomotor development, today he has shown significant development. He is being monitored a team of specialists including a neuro-pediatrician, orthopedist, physiotherapist, psychologist, speech therapist and nutritionist, in addition to receiving specialized educational care. Nate can now move around with some independence and is in the process of adapting to the use of an orthotic equipment, which may help his locomotion. According to the physiotherapist’s report, Natey crawls, sits in a W position with balance, stands with support and walks sideways. He has the potential to use a walker for home distances and a wheelchair for community distances.

Socially, Nate is an extroverted child who loves to participate in activities and communicate. He can focus on activities. He understands what is asked of him and responds coherently within his ability. He demonstrates caring and affection with other children and adults. He is observant to what is going on around him. Nate lives in a house where there are children younger than him and this fact limits his social interactions, which has significantly compromised his progress.

It is believed that Nate has great potential for development, as long as there is proper stimulation. The possibility of starting family life through adoption at this time is considered extremely important for the progress of the child’s physical, social and cognitive development.

Eleanor

Girl, Age: 10
Country Code: E-11
Region: Europe
heterozygous variant in the KAT6A gene. Heart issues, global developmental delay, severe language delay
Listed: Sep 2024
$0.00
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Eleanor is a beautiful young girl who needs a family.

Owen

Boy, Age: 3
Country Code: LA-2
Primary Diagnosis: Down syndrome
Down Syndrome; Hypothyroidism; Swallowing Disorder; Taking medications
Listed: Sep 2024
*** I am eligible for an additional $2,500 Grant from Reece’s Rainbow! Through June 2025, children with Down syndrome under the age of 6 are eligible for this grant. ***
$682.50
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!
Owen, born in February of 2021, is curious and eager to learn. He has a natural sense of wonder and a genuine enthusiasm for life. His playful spirit brings joy to those around him, and his kindness shines through in everything he does. Owen’s open-mindedness and willingness to try new things make him a joy to be around. We are excited for him to bring his light to a loving family.

VIDEO:
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-owen1
Password: Adoptmaa

Bowie #

Boy, Age: 7
Vision issues, cerebral palsy, seizures
Listed: Sep 2024
$31.50
has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!

Your gift will serve ALL of the children, as 10% of each Waiting Child Donation is shared with our Voice of Hope fund, as well!

Please meet this cute boy named Bowie.  He was diagnosed with congenital cataracts in both eyes.   However he underwent surgical treatment with implantation of intraocular lenses. There is suspected Glaucoma.  He is also diagnosed with Children’s cerebral palsy – Quadri pyramidal syndrome. Grand mal seizures with or without petit mal seizures.

Bowie can sit up independently from a lying position. He can stand up by holding on to various objects. He walks independently but it is uncoordinated. The child lags in neuropsychological development. He accepts bodily closeness with pleasure.  It is pleasant for him to be held by an adult. The presence of children in his immediate space does not bother him, but he does not show interest in them and does not initiate interaction. He is soothed by riding in a pram or listening to favorite children’s songs.  He prefers the environment to be quiet.  He becomes nervous and anxious around loud noise.  He is entirely dependent on the care of an adult.