Adoption Questions
- How is the adoptive family selected?
You may choose the adoptive parents for your baby by looking through the family autobiographies. - Can I meet the adoptive parents?
Yes, you may choose to meet the adoptive parents. It is a great opportunity for you to learn more about their personalities, family life, activities, etc. Remember, they are just as curious about you as you are about them (and just as nervous). If you don't feel comfortable with a face to face meeting, we can also arrange a telephone conference or pass on a letter to the family from you. - What "qualifications" must a couple meet before they are accepted as prospective adoptive parents?
Adoptive parents must complete an extensive background check and comprehensive home visit in order to adopt in the State of Florida. Local, State and Federal (FBI) background checks are performed in addition to a check of the Child Abuse Registry. Personal references, verification of employment and physical examinations are all standard requirements during the home study process. The adoptive parents' homes are also inspected to ensure a safe and healthy environment for the child. - Will my child be able to find me if they want to search for me?
The State of Florida has an Adoption Reunion Registry. You will be provided this information at the meeting with an Adoption Coordinator. Once you register, the child will be able to contact you after he/she reaches the age of eighteen. Gift of Life Adoptions also offers Reconnection services through our One Family Tree Adoption Counseling Center. Through the use of a variety of resources, our Reconnection Coordinators make every effort to locate the member of the adoption triad you are looking for. -
What happens when I go into labor?
We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Once you go into labor, please call our office and we will make the necessary arrangements to meet you at the hospital. You will not sign any paperwork making the adoption legal until you have been medically discharged OR it has been 48 hours since you delivered. Once the legal documents are signed, placement with the adoptive parents will occur. The baby will go home with the family following the hospital discharge. Up until that point, you can have as much contact with the family and/or baby that meets your comfort level. You can also take pictures and keepsakes (i.e. crib card, hat, etc). This is a very sensitive time and Gift of Life Adoptions will provide as much support as you need.
- Can I name the baby and have a copy of the birth certificate?
You can name the baby. Once the adoptive parents finalize the adoption, the child's name will be legally changed to his/her adopted name. However, the name that you choose will be on the child's original birth certificate which will be provided to you at your request. - What do I need to tell you about the birth father? In order to comply with Florida statutes, it is very important that you provide as much information as possible about the birth father. Whatever the situation may be, even if he is unaware or uninvolved, we need any details you can provide. We will meet the Birth Father wherever is most convenient and help him complete all the necessary paperwork.
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Can Gift of Life Adoptions help me financially?
Gift of Life Adoptions provides assistance with pregnancy related living expenses such as rent, utilities, food, maternity clothes and gas or travel expenses. These expenses are provided during pregnancy and for six weeks following delivery. Medical and other expenses are available on a case by case basis. Your caseworker will meet with you to create a monthly budget that can help meet your financial needs.
