Adptasst-2026 - adoption assistance

The Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families awarded the MS Department of Child Protection Services $103.388 million on October 1, 2025, under the Adoption Assistance block grant program (CFDA 93.659).

The award funds adoption subsidy costs for children with special needs who cannot be reunited with their families. The Adoption Assistance program provides Federal Financial Participation to states for these adoption assistance payments, which the MS Department of Child Protection Services administers as part of its broader child welfare portfolio. The award covers the period October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026, and applies throughout Mississippi.

Funding is distributed quarterly on the basis of estimated expenditures and later revised to reflect actual allowable claimed expenditures. Quarterly estimates are due July 30, October 30, January 30, and April 30 each year. The recipient must maintain all financial and programmatic records necessary for proper operation, including application records, eligibility determinations, and costs allocated to administration and training, in accordance with 45 CFR 75.361–365. Awards remain effective without plan renewal, although Title IV-E plans may be amended as necessary and are subject to approval or disapproval by the ACF Regional Child Welfare Program Manager within 45 days of receipt.