Adopter FAQs

What happens once I've chosen a child to adopt?

The admin or moderator will reach out to you to confirm the adoption.

What if I want to be anonymous?

The admin or moderator will do all the communicating with the adoptee if you have any questions. Otherwise, you shop, let us know when you're finished, and we then collect the gifts and then we deliver to the adoptee.

What if I don't want to be anonymous?

The admin or moderator will set up a group chat between the adoptee and you (the adopter). All communication must stay in the group chat only.

What if an adoptee contacts me outside of the group chat?

Notify the admin/moderator immediately.

What if the adoptee asks for an item over $75?

In most cases, this is done accidentally. Notify the admin/moderator immediately and the situation can be addressed.

What if I want to buy something that is valued over $75?

You may spend what you feel comfortable spending. We just don't allow the adoptee to ask for anything of value over the $75

When are gifts due?

December 9th so that we may meet our deadline for delivering gifts to the adoptee.

Can I deliver directly to the adoptee?

Yes, you can meet with your adoptee and deliver the gifts in person, but all meetups must take place in a public location, such as a shopping center parking lot. For safety reasons, we do not allow deliveries or pickups to private residences. Be sure to coordinate with your adoptee and tell an admin the meeting details. If you're unable to deliver the gifts yourself, you can use one of our designated drop box locations or meet with your admin.

What if I adopt a child and they have a sibling?

If you want to make sure the sibling as equal gifts, we can set up a group chat with the other adopter(s) so you may converse. Just be sure to let your admin or moderator know. If the gifts between siblings do not seem balanced, the admin team will look to supplement and add from our donation surplus to balance it out. Please reach out to the admin or moderator if you think you’ll need supplemental support.

When will the family post pictures?

While we love seeing the joy that these special moments bring, we want to respect the privacy of the families and children in our program. For this reason, we do not require families to share images.

Do I wrap the gifts?

No. Please provide your gifts unwrapped.

What if I drop my gifts off at a drop off location or directly to the family?

Please notify your admin of your drop off plans and send pictures of the items you're giving prior to any drop offs. This way we can keep track of the items given.

Can I purchase a gift for the parent/guardian?

Yes, you may. It is not necessary, and they do not expect one. Some choose to include the parent(s) with one.

How much should I spend?

We understand that every family has different giving capacities, and we don’t set a specific monetary value. However, it’s important to keep in mind that many of the children in our program may not receive any other gifts or new items throughout the year, so your generosity truly makes a difference. We encourage you to follow the wish list provided, with a focus on the 'need' and 'wear' categories, as these items—like clothing or essential supplies—often take priority over toys. Your thoughtful contribution, no matter the size, will bring joy and comfort to a child in need.

How many gifts do I get?

Some find amazing deals and get more.  Others get what is needed in the want, need, wear categories requested for the child. If there is a case where a want or a need is missed, or there is an imbalance of gifts between siblings, the admin team may supplement through donations that come in through one of our wish lists or supporting businesses.

Does the item have to be new?

Yes! We ask that all items be new and with tags.

Can I give cash to the family?

No cash is allowed. You may purchase a gift card. You may also donate via the Village of Hope PayPal and an admin will purchase gifts as needed to fill in gaps or you can purchase something directly from our Amazon wish list and it will be delivered on your behalf.

What should I do before I deliver?

Take and send pictures of all items to the admin or moderator. Then put all items in a black trash bag and label with the family # on it. This way the black trash bag hides the gifts. It's very important to label the bag(s) with the family # and child # that is on the adoption card so that the gifts are delivered to the right family.