At AFMC, our team brings diverse backgrounds and personal insights into the adoption process, recognizing both the rewarding and challenging aspects of this journey.

Our platform is designed to simplify the process by connecting clients with adoption opportunities across the United States. AFMC collaborates with various adoption professionals (attorneys, agencies, and other entities) who provide profiles and information on expectant parents. This information is then shared on our available situations page for our clients to review.

Clients who wish to be considered for a situation may submit their family profiles through the available situations page. The adoption professional or expectant parent can then download and review the profile directly. If a match is made and accepted, the adoptive family will work directly with the adoption professional to complete the process.

How do I find a family to adopt my child? 

Every birth mother has the right to determine the level of openness she desires in the adoptive relationship. When creating an adoption plan, it’s essential to consider what level of contact feels right for you and to choose an adoptive family open to those preferences.
Many adoptees and families find openness in adoption beneficial, but it’s not always possible or what every expectant mother prefers. Adoption For My Child respects and supports the level of openness you choose and is here to help facilitate your adoption plan based on your comfort and needs.

Can I place a baby or child who is already born?
Yes, you can place a child for adoption at any age, whether you’ve recently given birth or have an older child. It’s never too late to consider adoption, and we’re here to help you explore your options. If you need immediate assistance for safe placement, please contact our confidential line at 407-868-7331.

Can I make a short-term adoption plan?
Adoption is a permanent, legally binding process. However, if you need temporary care for your child while you consider your options, temporary care placements are usually available for a few days to several weeks. These placements are with licensed families providing safe and supportive care, giving you time to make the decision that’s best for you and your child.

What if I do not want to have any contact with the adoptive family?
You have the right to choose a closed adoption, where contact with the adoptive family is limited or absent. If you prefer no contact after placement, your adoption plan can reflect that choice, and we can assist you in finding an adoptive family aligned with your preferences.

Can I stay in touch with my child after placement?
Yes, as part of your adoption plan, you can determine the level of contact you would like to have with the adoptive parents and your child. Adoption For My Child can assist in creating a communication plan that respects your comfort level. We can also facilitate initial introductions and help establish communication boundaries that work for everyone involved.

Is there a cost involved with creating an adoption plan?

No, creating an adoption plan is free for birth parents, allowing you to make decisions about the process that feel right for you. We encourage you to consider all future possibilities when developing your plan and communicate your wishes clearly with the adoptive family.

Can the baby go directly to the adoptive family from the hospital?

Yes, if you request this arrangement and the adoptive parents agree, the baby can go directly to the adoptive family from the hospital.

What if I regret my decision?

Our professionals work with you before and after the adoption to support you in making the best decision for you and your child. Free counseling services are available to help you navigate any feelings of doubt or uncertainty. We encourage you to speak with a counselor and explore all options and resources to ensure adoption is the best choice for you.

If I make an adoption plan, will my child go into the system?

Adoption is different from foster care. By choosing adoption, you voluntarily transfer your parental rights to an adoptive family of your choice. Adoption does not involve the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) or other child welfare agencies. This allows you to select the adoptive family and have a say in your child’s upbringing and environment.

What if my circumstances change and I want to change my level of contact?

If you initially choose a closed adoption and later wish to establish contact, you can consult a counselor to explore the possibility of opening communication. The adoptive family’s agreement is necessary for any changes in contact. In an open adoption, contact arrangements can sometimes be adjusted, but this will depend on both parties and any state regulations on post-adoption contact.

When is the adoption ‘final’?

Adoption cannot be finalized until the revocation period—ranging from hours to months—has passed, and the court has completed all legal paperwork. Generally, adoption finalization takes place within three months to a year after placement, depending on factors like state laws, birth father involvement, and other circumstances.

Finding the Right Family

Adoption For My Child offers tools and resources to help you connect with families that may be the right fit for your child. We understand that you’re not just seeking a family to provide a good life for your child; you want to find a family you feel comfortable with and can trust to uphold the values you prioritize.

Through our platform, you can browse profiles of families with diverse backgrounds and beliefs, offering you a variety of options. Here’s a suggested approach for exploring and connecting with potential adoptive families:

1. Identify the Qualities You’re Looking For
   Start by listing the qualities that are most important to you. Consider aspects like religion, location, and openness to contact after placement. You might also note any other qualities you would prefer, such as hobbies and interests. This list will help guide your search.
2. Explore Profiles Thoughtfully
   When viewing family profiles, pay attention to how each family resonates with you. While some families may check all the boxes, others may offer a strong connection even if they don’t meet every criterion on your list. Trust your instincts and take the time you need to feel confident in your choice.
3. Connect with Families of Interest
   Once you’ve identified a few families that stand out, you can reach out to begin getting to know them. It’s okay to explore multiple connections to see what feels right. Consider discussing contact expectations after placement to ensure that your hopes for ongoing involvement align with theirs. If you have questions, your adoption professional can provide guidance and support.
4. Take Your Time
   Choosing a family is a personal and lasting decision. This is your journey, and you have the right to make the choice that feels best for you and your child. Take the time you need and remember that the right family is out there.

Some families may not feel like a good fit. Families that appear secretive, are vague, or agree too quickly may not align with an open adoption approach. Trust your instincts throughout this process.

Financial Help 

Yes! You may be eligible to receive financial support for pregnancy-related living expenses. In many states, the adoptive family you select can cover certain expenses such as rent, healthy food, utilities, transportation, maternity clothes, counseling, and medical bills. AFMC can also connect you with additional local resources to meet your needs.

Housing Help

Many states and counties offer programs through volunteer organizations or non-profits to support pregnant women. Pregnancy care centers often provide additional resources that may not be widely advertised. If you need assistance with housing or other essential services, please reach out to us at AFMC—we’re here to help with your physical, mental, and emotional needs.

Counseling Services

Counseling is highly recommended but not required. You can choose a counselor independently or work with one referred to you. Counseling is available throughout your pregnancy and after delivery at no cost. Emotional support is an essential part of the adoption process, even if you’re confident in your decision.

Adoption For My Child connects you with experienced, compassionate adoption counselors who can support you through every step, from decision-making to post-placement. If you’d like, a counselor can be present with you at the hospital. Counseling services continue for as long as you need after placement, at no cost to you.

AFMC has no religious or political affiliation and is committed solely to helping children find loving, permanent families.

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) offers federal grants to states to provide nutritious foods, health care referrals, and education for low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, as well as infants and children up to age five who are nutritionally at risk.

WIC aims to safeguard health by offering supplemental food, nutrition education, and support, helping ensure positive health outcomes for participants. Although WIC is not an entitlement program, it operates in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and several U.S. territories, serving approximately 53 percent of all infants born in the United States.

Most state WIC programs provide vouchers for use at authorized food stores. WIC operates through local health departments, hospitals, and community centers, among other facilities. For more information or to locate a WIC office, visit WIC Program Website.

As a birth father, you have the right to…

• Be involved in making decisions about your child’s future
• Request a paternity test
• Register your name as the putative father
• Consult with a counselor about your options
• Participate in decision-making at your comfort level

I Want to Parent, She Wants Adoption. What Can I Do?

Both birth parents have rights in deciding their child’s future. It’s essential to express your wishes early in the process. If you want to be involved in the adoption process or discuss alternatives, please contact a counselor or legal representative to guide you through your options and rights.

I’m Okay with Adoption as a Birth Father; How Involved Do I Have to Be?

Your involvement can be as limited or as active as you choose. At a minimum, you’ll need to confirm your understanding and consent to the adoption plan, provide your contact information, and sign any necessary legal paperwork. If you’d like a greater role, you may participate in choosing and meeting the adoptive family and, if mutually agreed, maintaining an open adoption relationship.

I’m a Birth Father, Not Ready to Parent, but I Don’t Believe in Adoption.

Consider discussing your views with the birth mother, as having open and respectful communication can lead to mutual understanding. It’s also helpful to speak with a counselor to learn about modern adoption practices, such as open adoption, which can provide a way to remain connected to your child.

What if I Want Contact with the Adoptive Family but the Birth Mother Doesn’t?

Each birth parent can establish their own open adoption arrangement with the adoptive family, which can be similar or distinct based on individual preferences. Make sure to clarify your contact expectations with your counselor to ensure they align with what the adoptive family is prepared to offer.

How Can I Be Sure the Family Will Keep Their Promises?

A common concern among birth parents is whether an adoptive family will honor agreed-upon contact. Families working with Adoption For My Child are educated about the importance of open adoption and maintaining their commitments. Additionally, some states allow for legally enforceable post-adoption contact agreements, which can provide additional reassurance. Discuss your options with your counselor to determine if such an agreement is available in your state.

How Will I Know My Baby Will Be Safe with the Adoptive Family?

Adoptive families undergo a comprehensive approval process before they are eligible to adopt. This process includes criminal and child abuse background checks, medical exams, financial disclosures, references, and a home study. After placement, counselors monitor the family for a period, typically 6-8 months, to ensure the child’s well-being. Reports of these visits are submitted to the court during the adoption finalization process.

Can I place my baby for adoption if I use opioids? 

Yes, babies with prenatal drug exposure can be placed for adoption. Medical professionals may prescribe alternative treatments to support expectant mothers facing addiction, as withdrawal can be challenging for both mother and baby. If you are experiencing substance dependency, please feel free to reach out confidentially. We offer resources to support you in a non-judgmental environment.

I Used Drugs or Alcohol Before I Knew I Was Pregnant. What Should I Do?

Your past use will not affect your ability to work with Adoption For My Child. However, it is important to discuss any substance use with your counselor to ensure the health of your baby. This helps families to understand and prepare for any potential health needs, allowing them to provide the best care. Rest assured, families are generally informed to help them support the baby’s well-being, not to pass judgment.