Most of the adoptive parents who apply to adopt through CT-AFS live in Connecticut, although we sometimes have adoptive parents who live in other states. The families are of all different races, ethnic backgrounds, and religions. Most of the adoptive parents are married couples who have been unable to have their own children. CT-AFS also helps single parents and alternative families adopt children.

When adoptive parents apply to adopt a child, they must first have a "home study" done. The home study is a thorough evaluation of the family and an assessment of their suitability for adoption. A social worker meets with them at the office and at their home several times. Information is collected about each member of the household. This includes family history, police and child abuse checks, to see if they have any criminal records, and reference letters. Every member of the family must have a physical exam and the home must be inspected for safety. The social worker also spends time educating parents about adoption and parenting adopted children.