I’m ready to begin, what do I do now?

The best thing to do is call our 24 hour / 7 day a week hotline at 507-287-7807. This number is answered by a local social worker! We will answer any additional questions you may have and then schedule an appointment with one of our social workers. We can meet in the office, over zoom, or come to your home, whichever is more convenient for you.

What will it cost me?

All services to expectant parents are free of charge.

How?

Prior to your baby being born, if applicable, we will assist you in developing a Hospital Plan. You will get to make the following decisions, and we will make sure we give the hospital a copy of your plan so everyone involved in your care knows how you would like your delivery to go:

• When will the adoptive parents come to the hospital?
• Who will your support system be at the hospital?
• Do you want the adoptive parents in the delivery room?
• Do you want a natural delivery or would you prefer using medication?
• Who will hold the baby first?
• Will the baby stay in your room, the nursery, or in a room with the adoptive family?
• Will you or the adoptive family care for the baby?
• You can allow them to care for the baby, you can do it yourself, or you can all do it together.
• How much time would you like alone with the baby?
• Would you like pictures of you and the baby?
• What would you like discharge from the hospital to look like?

What about the baby’s father?

The baby’s father may choose to be part of the adoption plan. He can receive letters and pictures, as well as visits, if he so chooses. The baby’s father may also choose to not be a part of the adoption plan. Either option is fine. We can go over the adoption laws regarding birth fathers in Minnesota with you in person so you are fully educated on what his rights may be.

I’m not sure who my baby’s father is. Can I still place my baby for adoption?

Yes. If you do not know the father’s identity, we can still help you proceed.

May I choose the family for my baby?

Yes, of course. This is your baby and your adoption plan to create, including choosing the family (if you would like to do so.) We present approved adoptive family profiles to you based upon your preferences.

How do I know the family I select is safe?

All families must be approved to adopt, and the approval process can be very intense. The prospective adoptive family must go through a home study approval process through a licensed adoption agency. A home study includes an FBI check, a state criminal check, a child abuse check, medical exams, an inspection of their home, examination of financial records, and multiple recommendations. In addition, if you chose to, you may meet the family.

Can I send my child pictures, gifts, etc.?

Yes you may, and often the adoptive parents may send the same to you.

Can I choose what type of adoption I would like to do: open, semi-open or closed?

Yes. We believe in empowering women. You may choose either open, semi-open, or closed adoption and we can explain both options so you may choose the best option for you and your baby.

What is an Open Adoption?

Open adoption is choosing the family for your baby, sharing information, and agreeing to ongoing contact throughout the years. This contact may include phone calls, visiting with each other and the child, sharing photos and letters, and/or corresponding via e-mail.

What is a Semi-Open Adoption?

Semi-open adoption is choosing the family for your baby, but the relationship does not include the sharing of identifying information. After the baby has been placed for adoption, many semi-open adoptions include emailing photos and letters between adoptive families and birth families.

What is a Closed Adoption?

Closed adoption is not choosing a family or having any contact before or after delivery.

To learn more, please give us a call at 507-287-7807.