FAQ's
Adoption is full of choices. Years ago there were no choices, but today there are many kinds of adoption choices – Heart and Soul Adoptions, it is our goal and obligation to insure that you have researched all of your options and that you feel comfortable with the decision you are making. Below we have answered many of the most common questions birth mothers ask. Please do not hesitate to call us as we will always be here for you!
Do I have a choice in selecting the adoptive family?
At Heart and Soul we welcome the involvement of selecting the perfect family for your baby. All of our families have completed a "profile" consisting of pictures and letters to you. When you are 4-6 weeks away from delivery, we will send you 3-4 profiles of families waiting to adopt. In reviewing these profiles you are able to find the perfect parents for your baby. Once you have selected a family, they are not presented to any other birth parents, this insures their commitment to you and your child. We do ask that if for any reason you feel like the continuation of your adoption plan is not the best thing for you, that you let us know immediately so we can present the family to another birth mother.
What if my child has health problems, or has been exposed to alcohol or drugs?
We have families that are open to special needs or drug exposed infants. We believe that every child deserves to have a loving permanent home regardless of health or special needs. We have NEVER turned away a child due to health concerns.
What kind of contact will I have with the adoptive parents after placement?
Open adoption is something that we do well. Most of our birth moms receive pictures and letters frequently. Before the child is born, we welcome phone conversations and we always encourage both birth parent and adoptive parent to meet when the child is placed. You are in the "drivers seat" when it comes to openness. We will only present you with families that feel just as comfortable with openness as you do. Our staff remains committed to helping that line of communication stay open in the future, long after the adoption is finalized. If on the otherhand you choose a "closed" adoption, we will be supportive of that decision.
How do I know that they will be a good family?
Heart and Soul Adoptions, Inc. is State licensed and we are required by law to conduct extensive home studies for all of our prospective adoptive parents. We visit the homes of all the families before and after the child is placed. All applicants must have a clean criminal record with the FBI and child abuse and neglect registry. We only work with the best!
Who pays for all of this, and can I have help with living expenses?
All legal and medical care is paid for by the adoptive parents. Living expenses can be provided but can only be pregnancy related. We are willing and able to help with rent and utilities after placement. Counseling is available and is also free of charge to you.
Will my baby have to go to foster care?
NO! Almost all placements are made directly from the hospital. If you live in a state that you have a period of time to change your mind, then we have wonderful families that provide temporary care until the child is able to be placed with the adoptive family. If you are not certain if adoption is the right choice for you but you need more time to think about it, then these same families are available to you in your time of need.
Even though this is right, it is still so hard emotionally. Can I ever get over this grief?
You will never forget. This is the hardest thing you will ever do in your entire life. Placing a child that you carried for nine months and to whom you give a life is the most unselfish and brave act you will ever perform. Our counselors are committed to working with you as long as you need. You must be healthy and we know that. You need to take care of yourself and other children you may have. Placing your baby is a huge loss and it is very important that you grieve, however it is our responsibility to ensure that you never feel alone or abandoned. Our goal is to insure that everyone in the adoption triads best interest be served.
Always know you can call us anytime before, during and after placement. You are our number one priority! We love you.