Gov. Bill Lee announces Home Study Reimbursement Grant Program

MGN

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WDEF) —  Governor Bill Lee has announced a new program aimed at reducing the cost of the private adoption process for Tennessee families.

The Home Study Reimbursement Grant Program will begin January 1, 2025.

Adoptive families could see reimbursements up to $1,000 for the cost of a home study completed by a licensed clinical social worker or child-placing agency.

While the state covers the entire cost of home studies for foster families, a home study for a private adoption can cost a family thousands.

According to the Department of Children’s Services (DCS), this program will have the opportunity to educate participating families on the need for more foster families.

The goal is to invite them to consider fostering while waiting for their private placement.

“Every child deserves to have a safe, loving home, and we continue to make this a top priority across Tennessee.  As DCS and community partners continue working together to support Tennessee children in need, this new grant program will ease a financial burden on adoptive families while engaging additional prospective foster families,” said Governor Bill Lee.

To be eligible for the grant, a home study must have been completed by a licensed Tennessee child placing agency on or after July 1, 2024.

Participants will also need to fill out an online application on the DCS website.

The application opens January 1, 2025.