Adoption carries high price tag

Here's a clearer perspective on adoption for Arlene Sawicki of South Barrington to ponder.

The average price of domestic adoption (i.e. the cost of a human life through legal agencies) is $15,000 to $25,000 and upward. Most international adoptions cost between $20,000 and $40,000 and upward. Mandatory travel expenses are not included in that total.

There are unsecured bank loans available for certain couples at a variable rate and some give you fifteen years to pay it off. Grants are hard to get and minimal cost compared with the grand total. Certain organizations can also discriminate against couples on the basis on your religion; preferring to give loans to "their own kind".

Most American couples cannot afford either domestic or international adoptions. That's just the facts, Arlene. Unless you live in places like South Barrington and money is not an issue.

Jennifer Polka

Rolling Meadows