Oklahoma has had a turbulent history. Many American have heard of the Cherokee “Trail of Tears” when the Five Civilized Tribes were forced to relocate to Oklahoma in the 1820s. The area that later became Oklahoma City was known as the “Unassigned Lands.” Pioneers, called “Boomers,” settled there without permission, finally forcing the government to hold ‘land runs,’ beginning in 1889, when settlers could claim land. This was a violent time, but by 1900 Oklahoma City was beginning to emerge as a city.
Children were part of this early settlement. Some came West with their parents while others were born in Oklahoma. Far too many suffered the loss of one or both parents due to illness, accidents or violence. Some were born to mothers unable to care for them. Today there are more resources available for both birth mothers and children, but the needs are just as great.
There are many different types of adoptions in Oklahoma. Infant adoptions are first thought of, but there are always children with special needs who need homes. Foster families may adopt a foster child; step-parents or relatives can choose to adopt a child within the family. Some couples turn to international adoptions although that process can be lengthy, frustrating and expensive. Children living in other states can be adopted providing that the laws stated in The Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children are followed. Under certain circumstances, adults are adopted. The adoption process usually requires the services of an attorney and/or adoption agency.
In 1900, Oklahoma wasn’t even a state, but was still Indian Territory. That was the year that Deaconess Pregnancy and Adoption Services opened their doors to birth mothers with a baby that they were unable to care for and to families looking for a child to welcome into their hearts. There was a great need for the service then, as there is today. With over 100 years of experience, they have learned a great deal about forming families. They also understand the stresses and needs of birth mothers facing a difficult decision. Finding loving homes for Children for Adoption in Oklahoma is their mission and they work hard every day to fulfill it.
