Hawaii recently (January 1, 2007) implemented a procedure to allow a child at high risk of a medical, physical, behavioral/emotional condition or handicap to qualify as a “child with special needs.” This means the child will qualify for adoption assistance as long as other eligibility requirements are met. According to DHS, a child at “high risk” is defined as a foster child with harm and/or threatened harm confirmed by DHS and who is under DHS placement responsibility at the time of adoption.

Download the attached article for more information. Adoption Assistance Policy Hawaii 07-01-01