Please be sure to read all instructions carefully, especially those related to the State of New York Criminal Background Checks and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
We recommend you begin gathering these documents as soon as possible. Unless otherwise directed, you may send documents to WHFC as you receive or complete them, or submit all documents at once. Remember that we are here to help you every step of the way! Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
WHFC Forms
MEDICAL STATEMENT
Complete one for each person living in your home
Last updated: 3/30/2009
RELEASE OF COUNSELING INFORMATION
If applicable
Last updated: 6/5/2008
AUTHORIZATION FORM
To release criminal conviction record information
Last updated: 5/13/2009
AFFIDAVIT OF HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE
Signed by either your employer or health insurer
Last updated: 1/1/2009
THREE (3) LETTERS OF REFERENCE
See enclosed instructions
Last updated: 1/15/2015
DOCUMENTATION OF ARREST HISTORY
If applicable. See enclosed instructions
Last updated: 1/15/2015
PRE-ADOPTION EDUCATION OVERVIEW
Last updated: 1/15/2015
Government-Issued Documents
BIRTH CERTIFICATE*
One (1) original or copy for each applicant
MARRIAGE LICENSE/ CERTIFICATE*
If applicable, one (1) original or copy
FINAL DIVORCE DECREE(S)*
If applicable, one (1) original or copy for each applicant
*NOTE: These documents must be civil (government-issued) records where the event was registered. We recommend obtaining at least five (5) original or certified copies (copies with an official raised seal) of all legal certificates for future use in completing adoption program dossiers and U.S. legalization procedures.
Tax Form: Please include a copy of your most recent 1040 (first two pages only).
Criminal Background & Child Abuse Checks
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CLEARANCE INSTRUCTIONS
Last updated: 3/14/2018
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CLEARANCE REQUEST FORM
Last updated: 06/07/2011
CHILD ABUSE CLEARANCE INSTRUCTIONS AND CHECKLIST
Last updated: 09/21/17
Filing Procedures for Immigration
I-600A FILING INSTRUCTIONS
Last updated: 3/19/19
I-800A FILING INSTRUCTIONS
Last updated: 3/19/19
Please mail to the address below after making copies for your records.
Wide Horizons For Children
375 Totten Pond Road, Suite 100
Waltham, MA 02451
Attn: Applications Coordinator
