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We pride ourselves on providing personal, customized care for each birth mother. You are all “Our girls!” Each of you are unique and deserve
attention to your own special needs. Whether you are 15 or 40, alone or with full family support, whether it is your first pregnancy or
your fifth, this is a scary time. This is not just about your pregnancy, this is about the rest of your life. This is the beginning of our
journey together.
Here are some of the questions we hear most often...
Why would I consider adoption?
Does anyone need to know?
Can I choose the couple who will raise my baby?
What kind of families are available to adopt my baby?
What if I'm overwhelmed and can't decide?
How committed am I to you for adoption?
God wouldn't give me something I can't handle?
When do I sign the papers?
What if I change my mind?
What if I know someone who wants to adopt my baby?
Do I have to name the birth father?
What if I'm under 18?
Who pays my medical bills?
Do I need to get my own attorney?
Can I get living assistance?
How do I tell my family?
Can I get letters, pictures and visits after the adoption?
What is open adoption?
How do I deal with everyone's opinion of my pregnancy?
What if no one is supportive?
Can I see the baby in the hospital?
How do I know that my baby will be in a good home?
Will my baby go to a foster home?
What will my child think of me later?
Why choose the Adoption Support Center?
For whatever reason, right now you may not be ready to parent. You may want a two-parent home or more stability for your child.
No. If you lack support while making this plan for your child, we are here for you. If you choose to, Amanda, Kate or Abbie
can help you discuss this with your family/children. All of our conversations are confidential.
| Can I choose the couple who will raise my baby? |
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Absolutely! We will ask you what kind of family you have in mind and pull biographies of couples that match your criteria.
We will continue to show you bios until you find a family that really, really excites you!
| What kind of families are available to adopt my baby? |
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We have stable Indiana families waiting to adopt. You can choose from couples with no children or families that have adopted or biological children already living in their home.
If you are overwhelmed and want less involvement, we can make it simpler. We can even choose the couple for you.
There is no contract. If we can't meet your needs, there is no obligation. We only ask you to be honest about your feelings,
your needs, and your commitment. We don't want anyone to get hurt. We encourage you to tell us if you are feeling unsure about adoption.
| God wouldn't give me something I can't handle? |
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God has given you this choice. No matter what you decide, God has given you this opportunity, knowing you can make the tough decision that is right for you and this child.
My Rights
You will sign after the birth of your child, usually 24-48 hours later.
You can change your mind at any time during your pregnancy or after the birth, as long as you have not signed the adoption papers.
Once you have chosen to sign the consent, you cannot change your mind.
| What if I know someone who wants to adopt my baby? |
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Doing a private adoption means there is no agency. You are still entitled to financial assistance and counseling no matter
if you place your baby with a friend, family member of through a private adoption attorney.
Legal Questions
No. You do not have to identify the birth father, according to Indiana Law.
It's still your decision. Your parents have no legal right to the child and there are no grandparent rights in the state of Indiana.
If you do not have Medicaid or insurance, and you do an adoption, medical bills for you and the baby are paid by the couple.
If you choose to parent, of course, your first parental experiences would be to apply for Medicaid or pay the medical bills for you and your baby.
No. You do not need one. However, one can be provided for you.
Yes. The state of Indiana allows for $3,000 of assistance with housing, living expenses, food, utilities and maternity clothes.
We can help. You'll be surprised how well they respond when they hear the confidence in your voice, feel your commitment and see
your maturity. We can be present, if you wish, and help with this important step.
| Can I get letters, pictures, and visits after the adoption? |
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Yes. This is an important topic. You should discuss your wishes before placement, so you are all in agreement. Most of our couples
would like to share pictures and letters, and most will do visits after placement, if you wish.
An open adoption is when you and the family share letters, pictures, visits and full identities after placement.
Preparing for Placement
| How do I deal with everyone's opinion of my pregnancy? |
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We know the opinions of your parents, friends and family matter to you, but, ultimately, what you think
is most important. No one has to live with this decision but you.
Many friends and family members will make promises to help you parent. Ask yourself if they have really come through for you in the past.
You must make a decision you feel you can live with for the rest of your life.
Yes. You can choose the level of contact you have with your baby and your adoptive family in the hospital.
| How do I know that my baby will be in a good home? |
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As a licensed agency, we do our own screening of our adoptive families. We can assure you they are stable,
financially secure families in a solid marriage. They have passed five criminal and CPS screens, been approved as healthy by doctor
physicals, and have presented proof of income via tax records and payroll stubs. They must attend sessions at our office, be visited
by our counselor in their home, and attend our home study class. When approved, they have a true understanding of your
needs for communication and sharing, and are happy to provide it.
No. Your baby goes directly from the hospital to your adoptive family's home.
Our families have a strong respect for our birth mothers, and they want your child to feel that same love and respect for you.
The home study is an educational process that covers when and how to tell the child they are adopted, how to handle their many
questions as they grow, and to give them a strong sense of confidence. They will always love and respect you.
We are women helping women. As a collection of caring women who are adoptive moms and birth mothers, we have personally experienced
infertility and unplanned pregnancies. We know what it is like to be vulnerable and scared, to experience loss. Who could help you better?
Our coordinators are tireless and passionate. They will respond to your calls and visit you quickly. During your pregnancy, they will
help you navigate medical care, legal advice, financial burdens, birth fathers and adoptive couples. And after you've placed, you will
not be forgotten. Support will continue long after placement.
So call and ask us about adoption. There is no obligation, and a friendly voice will always answer.
If you have more questions, be sure to call us any time day or night at
1-800-274-1084 or 317-255-5916
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