Bethany Social Services: Albania/Kosovo Report ... - Milika Dhamo

Bethany Albania
Adoption
BSSA recognizes that children grow best in families. Permanency planning
programs strive to place every child in a permanent family, either
through reunification with their biological families, foster care, or
domestic/international adoption. BSSA is committed to advocating on
behalf of every child who is brought to our attention.
If reunification with the biological family or foster care are not options
for a child, BSSA works with the Albanian government to advocate
for domestic or international adoption. An abandoned Albanian child
becomes available first to Albanian families, but for children who are
not adopted in their native country, international adoption may be their
only option. Bethany is one of eight adoption agencies allowed to work
in Albania.
Many do not believe that anyone will want to adopt older children or
those with special needs. These children run the risk of never becoming
“adoptable” because their paperwork has not been processed. BSSA
advocates for these children by discussing successful older child and
special needs adoptions with key people at various levels in the adoption
process.
Dr. Agim Xhumari (far left) with adoptive families
from the U.S. (Pypers, Bradfords, Marshes)
International Adoptions (Out of 21)
Healthy
Special Needs
10 11
Young Older (age 3+)
11 10