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The economy isn’t all that kind to those who are are considering adoption. While I have not heard that the price of adopting has risen, the amount of money we have at our disposal has certainly changed for the vast majority of us. Even those who have been steadfast in their saving and made smart financial decisions over the years may be feeling some anxiety about the economy. We all have to buy groceries!
With all of this in mind, perhaps you’re wondering how you’re going to fund an adoption if you do choose this path of building your family. While many others are well-versed in specific grants and such, I have a few common sense ideas and a few others to help you in this journey.
1. Cut out those meals out and start planning your meals at home. True, you’re still spending money for food. However, when you take the time to plan your meals one to two weeks at a time, you save money. Pure and simple. (You also end up saving time in the end!)
2. Rework your budget. Are you currently paying for things that aren’t necessities? Are those non-necessities really necessary? Do you absolutely need a DVD mailed to your house to let it sit there for two to three weeks before you actually watch it? We all have things that we subscribe to (magazines, services) that, if cut, wouldn’t be all that life-altering. Our cable packages could be lessened or, gasp, let go. (Rabbit ears are totally retro and retro is cool again, isn’t it?) Do you really read your local newspaper every single day? If you have magazine subscriptions coming up, do you really need to review? Sit down and really look at your budget. Decide what can go and then let it go!
3. Get creative! If you look on Etsy, a site where people sell handmade wares, you will find quite a few stores made by adoptive parents who are trying to make a few extra dollars by creating and selling things. Don’t go into debt to create but if you already have things, start creating! Now! Who knows, you could become a famous Etsy seller and end up in one of the magazines that you just dropped!
4. Blog. Exactly how does that make you money? Blog well, create a loyal readership and then sell spots on your sidebar to advertising. Take any money that comes in and put it toward your adoption expenses. The key, however, is to blog well.
5. Get together with a bunch of friends or your church and host a bake sale, yard sale or other such function. If you’re working with your church, offer to split proceeds. They may decline, wanting to help you but offer all the same. Be sure to thank any and everyone involved in such a joint effort.
These are just five little things that can help put money toward your adoption expenses. Of course, they won’t pay the full price immediately but each and every penny counts. When you start working toward a goal, it can feel less overwhelming. Take it one dollar at a time!
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