Downey Side helps families in New York and New Jersey adopt children from across the United States. Our focus is on distinct groups of children: older children (7-17), children of color, physically and emotionally challenged children and sibling groups.
There is plenty of confusing information surrounding adoption. We help you by demystifying the process, then preparing and certifying you and your family for adoption. We’ll introduce you to people who have been there—your most important source of knowledge.
Then we help you to search for children and facilitate your eventual family unification. We do not leave you ‘orphaned’ but stick with you throughout.
To augment the small amount, we receive from the contracting state or county, we charge a fee: $7,500 for a single-parent family and $10,000 for a two-parent family. (We are happy to discuss flexible payment arrangements.) Adoption requires teamwork and we are pleased to be part of your team.
Learn more about Downey Side by viewing the video below of Dawn Rusinko, our NY/NJ Director at the Adoption Summit 2025.
Founded by Father Paul Engel ofm Cap. in 1967, in Springfield Mass, Downey Side was conceived and continues to operate under the belief that children thrive when they can be raised in loving, permanent homes. His sister, Elizabeth Engel O.P. has been ably running the agency since his recent retirement. The agency has always focused on older children and those whose challenges make their path to adoption more difficult. Our advocacy and action have helped place over 8000 children into successful long-term family relationships.
MISSION STATEMENT
Downey Side’s philosophy is rooted in the conviction that every child deserves the right to a permanent family. It is our purpose to work in partnership with the government as a licensed adoption agency to place America’s waiting children who otherwise would remain homeless. We are dedicated to family life for all children and strongly believe that a healthy permanent relationship is the best prevention against homelessness.
Downey Side has also the additional purpose of leading members of each community to become advocates and spokesmen for children in need.
Dawn Rusinko, OFS, CLEM BSW- Executive Director
Dawn Rusinko is the Executive Director of Downey Side Adoption Agency’s New Jersey and New York offices. An adoptive mom herself, she brings personal experience and professional expertise to her work, helping children in foster care find loving, permanent families. With over twenty years in youth ministry, faith formation, and pastoral care, Dawn is deeply committed to supporting children, families, and adoptive parents throughout the adoption process. She holds degrees in Theology and Social Work, is a Secular Franciscan, and a certified lay ecclesial minister, combining compassion, advocacy, and knowledge to guide families through life-changing journeys.
Kimberly Frink, Director of Operations
Kimberly joined Downey Side in 2006. Kim oversees ongoing financial operations, licensing, communication and administration. Kimberly learned about Downey Side through a wanted ad in the NY Times newspaper. She was impressed with Downey Side’s Mission of finding homes for homeless children and wanted to be a part of the wonderful organization.
Kim also assists with the digital transformation of the agency and she holds degrees in Technology and Art & Advertising Design.
Text goes here. Can include links to outside resources or other content. TBD
Learn more about the adoption process and where Downey Side can help you navigate the challenges inherent in this rewarding process.
