After two decades handling bankruptcies, Taves says this case is a uniquely emotional one. The creditors — a group that includes the estimated 400 would-be adoptive families — kept the adoptions, not money, a priority.

“They’re really committed to helping children around the world. There’s some families in Canada that would like to give (those children) the love they need.”

Some other creditors also pledged to forgive their debts to allow the agency to start again under different leadership.

There was reportedly no sign at yesterday’s meeting of Susan Hayhow, Imagine’s executive director. She had been in Ethiopia, where the agency operates, when the bankruptcy became public July 13, but has returned home.

Questions about several expenses, such as two luxury vehicle leases and some rental properties, were raised by two of the agency’s board members before the bankruptcy filing. They also brought their concerns to Waterloo Regional police, whose fraud squad has launched a criminal investigation.

For many families, the emotional process of international adoption has cost many years and as much as $20,000.

For more information, visit Adoption Guide and Tips