I have had an AMAZING experience. I’ve loved all the ladies I’ve worked with from Debi to Kim and everyone in between! I’ve chosen a great family and formed a strong bond with them. I’ve had so much fun and learned a lot in our groups. Met other birth moms with amazing stories! I also had a great opportunity to meet with a group of new adoptive couples and got to share my story as well as hear theirs! It’s been a tough road but it turned out to be the most meaningful and greatest decision I’ve made. I’ve gained a lot of peace and confidence from Heart to Heart and learned how to feel comfortable talking about my adoption process! Thanks!!
Maryland Adoption Agency
How Can We Help?
Blue crabs, Old Bay Seasoning, distinctive state flag, and Chesapeake Bay–we love Maryland for the same reason residents love the widely diverse state.
We also love to support birth mothers and potential adoptive families in this historic area. At Heart to Heart Adoption Agency, we understand that deciding to adopt or place a child for adoption is a huge deal with lots of feelings and questions. That’s why we’re here to offer emotional support, help with finances, and medical care at every stage of the journey.
Our goal as an adoption agency is to connect Maryland birth mothers with the perfect adoptive family.
Maryland Adoption Agency
How Can We Help?
Blue crabs, Old Bay Seasoning, distinctive state flag, and Chesapeake Bay–we love Maryland for the same reason residents love the widely diverse state.
We also love to support birth mothers and potential adoptive families in this historic area. At Heart to Heart Adoption Agency, we understand that deciding to adopt or place a child for adoption is a huge deal with lots of feelings and questions. That’s why we’re here to offer emotional support, help with finances, and medical care at every stage of the journey.
Our goal as an adoption agency is to connect Maryland birth mothers with the perfect adoptive family.
Unexpected Pregnancy?
Confusion and uncertainty often surround an unplanned pregnancy. It’s normal to feel scared and overwhelmed. Heart to Heart Adoptions is here for you, ready to listen, support, and guide you in making the best choices for your future.
Here are our promises.
- We’ll treat you with care and respect.
- We’ll help you make a loving adoption plan based on your hopes and dreams for your child’s future.
- You can see profiles of adoptive families and choose the one you feel is right for your child.
- You can decide between a closed adoption, where your identity is kept private, or an open adoption, where you can stay in touch with the adoptive family through letters, calls, or visits.
- If you choose an open adoption, we’ll introduce you to the adoptive family before the baby arrives and assist you in communicating with them afterward.
- Remember, you’re not alone. We’re here for you every step of the way. You can contact a case manager by clicking below.
Wanting to Adopt?
The adoption journey can feel overwhelming. You’re not alone. At Heart to Heart Adoptions, our main objective is to support you throughout this process. We’ll make this process more manageable and turn your adoption dreams into reality.
Our experienced team will help you explore adoption, meet the necessary requirements, and start your search for adoption opportunities. We’re here for you every step of the way.
We understand that many couples face challenges in conceiving a child due to medical or other reasons. We also recognize that single individuals may be considering adoption. At Heart to Heart Adoptions we have extensive experience in assisting both couples and singles as they explore their options for building or expanding their families.
Supporting Adoption in Maryland
Are you thinking about finding an adoption agency in Maryland? Do you want an agency that prioritizes helping birth mothers?
Fees that the agency charges are used to support birth mothers through their pregnancy and until they can get back on their feet after the birth.
How do I place my baby for adoption in Maryland?
Deciding to place your baby for adoption can be overwhelming. At Heart to Heart Adoptions, we’re here to help you throughout the process. A year from now, two years from now, 16 years from now, and 20 years from now, we want you to feel that you have made the best choices for yourself and your baby. That is why:
First, We Talk...
We start by discussing your decision to consider adoption. Is this what is best for you and the baby? What is best considering factors like your financial situation, social support, and readiness for parenting?
You’ll speak directly with an adoption counselor who will listen to your questions and needs.
Then We Plan...
If you’re interested in exploring adoption further, we’ll send you a confidential questionnaire to understand your preferences and help identify potential adoptive parents.
We recognize that these plans can change. As you get closer to giving birth, you may need to relocate, or you may need additional services. We’ll be there to talk at any time. Throughout this process, we will help you find a family to which you feel connected.
The Choice Is Yours...
You can decide if you want to meet prospective adoptive parents.
Depending on timing, we can arrange more meetings with the counselor or prospective parents.
When the Baby Is Born...
We’ll help you find the best medical care before your baby is born, and we will be there to support you during and after the birth.
You’ll have the option to spend time with the baby in the hospital, with ongoing counseling support from Heart to Heart Adoptions.
We're There for You...
If you decide on adoption, the baby will be discharged to us after your personal time with them.
Counseling and support continue even after discharge.
Last, But Not Least...
We offer ongoing connection with the adoptive family, ensuring you stay connected and informed.
The adoption plan evolves over time, and our support is always available to meet your changing needs.
Support for Birth Mothers
My son and I were in an emergency, and I became suddenly homeless. I couldn’t provide for my child and was worried for his future and immediate needs. As a mom, I exhausted every option to provide for my child. Heart to Heart Adoptions helped me find peace and reassurance with the family I selected to have my boy feel safe, loved, and welcomed into a new family. It was the last decision I ever wanted for my child. But Heart to Heart made the process smooth, zero pressure, very understanding and comforted me in my decision. I couldn’t of asked for a better experience and knowing my son went to a loving family and I’ll still be able to see and contact my son for years to come. Highly recommend and they help moms every step of the way!
Birth Mother — Brandi
How Do I Place My Baby For Adoption?
Sometimes, we hear individuals use the terms “give up baby for adoption” or “put baby up for adoption” when referring to adoption.
At Heart to Heart Adoptions, we are trying to explain why we use “place a baby for adoption” or “make a parenting plan,” Giving up a baby for adoption suggests defeat. We don’t use these phrases. Instead, we use “place a baby for adoption or “make a parenting plan.” “Give up,” or “put up,” suggests a sense of defeat or that the relationship between a birth mother, her baby, and the adoptive parents ends at placement. That is not the case. Relationships can last for a lifetime.
Deciding on adoption for your baby is a kind choice to give them a good life with a loving family. It’s brave to think about your baby’s needs more than your own because you don’t feel ready to be a mom right now. This doesn’t make you a bad person; it shows your courage. Adoption is a special gift, and you’re giving that gift to your child and the adoptive family. If you are even considering adoption, you can contact us at any time to talk about your options.
We provide women facing an unplanned pregnancy with a supportive caseworker who can help you decide if adoption is the right choice for you.
We’re here to help you with everything you need to know about adoption.
Here's what we can do for women considering placing their baby for adoption:
- We’ll give you all the information about adoption so you can understand your choices and decide if it’s right for you.
We’ll explain the adoption process step by step. - We’ll make sure you know your rights throughout the process.
- We can meet in person or talk on the phone or Facetime to understand what kind of family you want for your baby.
- We’ll show you profiles of loving families waiting to adopt so you can choose the best fit for you and your baby.
- We’ll help you plan for the hospital when your baby is born. We’ll let the hospital know about your adoption decision and your preferences, so you don’t have to worry about answering too many questions during labor.
- We’ll connect you with a caseworker who will support you during and after your pregnancy.
- We’ll also arrange support services during and after birth, knowing that pregnancy and adoption can bring up many emotions.
- If you choose an open adoption, we’ll guide you through the paperwork and help with any post-adoption agreements. In an open adoption, you can stay in touch with your child, making placement just the start of your relationship, not the end.
And the best part? All of this support comes at no cost to you. We'll also help with:
- Finding a doctor if you don’t already have one.
- Applying for Medicaid if you don’t have private insurance.
- Counseling before and after birth.
- Covering pregnancy-related expenses like rent, extra food, housing, and transportation.
Financial Assistance:
You can receive financial help for your reasonable and necessary living expenses and legal costs. This includes:
We can help with rent or mortgage payments. If your present location feels unsafe, we can help you relocate to a place where you have less to worry about. We want you to feel comfortable so you can deal confidentially with your pregnancy.
We’ll cover electric, water, or telephone bills that are necessary for your living situation.
You and your minor children living with you will have food expenses covered.
We’ll assist with travel costs for medical appointments or essential trips related to your pregnancy.
Your medical expenses related to the pregnancy and birth will be taken care of.
If you’re hospitalized or unable to care for your children, we’ll provide support for their care.
We’ll cover legal costs related to the adoption process, ensuring you have proper representation and understanding of your rights.
We'll cover legal costs related to the adoption process, ensuring you have proper representation and understanding of your rights.
- Expenses that you can already afford with your current resources.
- Expenses for other family members, except for your minor children living with you.
- Costs for recreational activities or leisure.
- Buying a car.
Our goal is to ensure that you have the support you need during this process without any financial burden. You can focus on making the best decision for yourself and your child, knowing that we’re here to assist you every step of the way.
Potential Adoptive Family
Are you wondering about the process and costs of adopting a child in Maryland? We’re here to provide clarity on both fronts. Our agency is transparent about adoption fees and will walk you through the entire journey.
It’s important to understand that some expenses, such as those legally provided to birth mothers, are included in our agency fees. We’ll give you a breakdown of the costs involved so you have a clear understanding of what to expect financially.
In Maryland, adoption expenses typically range from $20,000 to $50,000, depending on the specific circumstances of the adoption.
If you’re ready to move forward or have questions about costs and procedures, let’s talk. We aim to support you and make the adoption process as smooth as possible.
At Heart to Heart Adoptions, we see adoption as more than just paperwork. It’s about turning a challenging situation into a positive opportunity. For women facing unplanned pregnancies, adoption provides support, structure, and a way forward. It’s a decision of empowerment during a difficult time.
For couples dealing with infertility, adoption represents hope. It’s a chance to create the loving family you’ve always dreamed of.
When a birth mother chooses adoption, it’s a brave and loving decision for herself and her baby. It’s a choice filled with courage and compassion.
What Birth Families Should Understand About Adoption in Maryland
Can birth parents have an open adoption in Maryland?
Open adoptions are becoming more common these days, where birth parents and adoptive parents stay in touch even after the adoption is done. Birth mothers receive pictures, videos, and messages from the adoptive family.
At Heart to Heart Adoptions, we have a free online app called Our Hearts Connect. This web app helps adoptive families and birth families easily communicate.
What kind of financial support can I receive if I plan to place my baby in Maryland?
In the above, we listed the backing Maryland regulations permit when a birth mother places a child in Maryland. At Heart to Heart Adoptions, we also provided Maryland birth mothers counseling after the adoption as well as a few weeks of support to help them get back into their lives.
What kind of medical assistance do I receive if I place my baby in Maryland?
One of our highest priorities at Heart to Heart Adoptions is guaranteeing that birth mothers receive appropriate medical care. We are dedicated to supporting you during labor to the best of our abilities.
Here's how you can place your baby for adoption in Maryland with Heart to Heart Adoptions:
Start the adoption process by contacting us.
A compassionate case manager will assist you with legal, emotional, and financial support.
- Medical Care: Visit your doctor for pregnancy confirmation and prenatal care.
- Guidance and Support: Connect with Heart to Heart Adoptions for guidance throughout the process.
- Adoption Plan: Collaborate with your case manager to create an adoption plan and decide on the level of openness you prefer.
- Adoptive Family Selection: Review profiles and meet with potential adoptive families to choose the right fit.
- Hospital Plans: Develop plans for the hospital stay and consent to adoption, allowing time for initial bonding.
- Post-Placement Support: Receive ongoing support, including counseling and guidance, after the adoption.
What Families Looking to Adopt in Maryland Need to Know
What’s a home study when adopted in Maryland? It’s a detailed process where a trained adoption social worker interviews you and your references to understand your reasons for adoption, family dynamics, and plans for raising the baby.
During the process, you’ll submit the required documents guided by clear instructions. This experience helps you learn more about adoption and parenting while helping us match you with the right birth family and baby.
Why is it Important? A Home Study assesses your suitability as adoptive parents, giving birth parents confidence in your ability to provide a safe and loving home. It also supports you in managing the emotions of welcoming a new child.
Looking to adopt a baby in Maryland?
Here's a guide to help you navigate the process:
Requirements for Prospective Parents:
- You can be single or married but must be at least 21 years old.
- Financial stability is essential.
- Complete an adoption application.
- Provide background and lifestyle information along with references.
- Show proof of marriage or divorce if applicable.
- Undergo a home study, including background and child abuse checks for all adults in your household.
You can officially begin the process once you meet these requirements and decide adoption is right for you.
Many prospective adoptive parents are curious about the adoption timeline in Maryland. Here are some insights:
Home Study Process: This includes criminal background checks, FBI fingerprinting, health and financial statements, emotional readiness, and preparing for the adoption journey.
Time Frame: Adoption timelines in Maryland vary widely. Some families have been matched within a couple of months after completing their home study, while others have waited longer, sometimes years. The waiting period typically ranges from 9 to 18 months.
Finalization Hearing: After the child is placed in your home, there’s a finalization hearing about six months later. During this hearing, a judge reviews the post-placement visit report from your home study professional.
Maryland has specific requirements for post-placement visits in adoption cases. These requirements must be met before the adoption can be legally finalized. Here’s what you need to know:
Post-Placement Visits: After bringing a baby home, the adoptive family must have at least three visits from a social worker associated with a child placing adoption agency.
Purpose of Visits:
- Evaluate, Support, and Educate: The social worker assesses, supports, and educates the adoptive parents regarding adoption.
- Heritage and Cultural Traditions: Emphasis is placed on the importance of continuing the child’s heritage and cultural traditions.
- Reporting Concerns: Any concerns of abuse or neglect are reported immediately.
- Child’s Safety: The child’s safety in the new home is assessed, and action is taken if there are safety concerns.
- Safety Measures: If the child’s safety is at risk, the social worker has the authority to remove the child from the home.
- The post-placement study is similar to the adoption home study conducted before placement. Your adoption specialist can provide more detailed information about these requirements and help you prepare for the post-placement visits.
If you meet the adoption qualifications in Maryland and are interested in learning more, feel free to contact Heart to Heart Adoptions at 801-563-1000.
Maryland Adoption Laws: A Summary
Adoption laws vary from state to state. They cover things like birth parents’ rights and how open adoption works. Knowing these differences is critical, especially if you’re thinking about adoption in Maryland or considering placing your child for adoption.
Adoption in Maryland is a legal process that establishes a parent-child relationship between individuals who are not biologically related. Through this process, the adoptive parents assume all the rights and responsibilities of parenthood, while the legal rights and obligations of the biological parents are terminated. This legal framework ensures that the new parent-child relationship is treated with the same legal significance as a biological one.
ICPC (Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children)
- Any adoption across state lines involves ICPC, ensuring uniform procedures and protections for children.
- Families must stay in the child’s state until ICPC approval, which can take up to 30 days.
Adoption in Maryland is a legal process that establishes a parent-child relationship between individuals who are not biologically related. Through this process, the adoptive parents assume all the rights and responsibilities of parenthood, while the legal rights and responsibilities of the biological parents are terminated. This legal framework ensures that the new parent-child relationship is treated with the same legal significance as a biological one.
Any adult who is not the child’s biological parent can petition the court for adoption in Maryland. Marital status is not a barrier to adoption, although specific requirements exist for those adopting through a public agency, such as completing a 27-hour home study course.
Consent plays a crucial role in the adoption process. Maryland law mandates that the child’s legal guardians must consent to the adoption. In public agency adoptions, the agency itself often acts as the child’s guardian and can provide consent. For independent adoptions, the petitioner must obtain consent from all living parents unless specific circumstances apply, such as termination of parental rights.
Independent adoptions generally refer to adoptions arranged by and between a biological parent and a prospective adoptive parent, and the biological parents and prospective parents negotiate with one another (either directly or through lawyers).
There are special issues when a parent has not consented to an independent adoption. If a parent files a notice of objection, the court cannot grant the adoption unless the petitioner:
- Has had custody of the child for more than 180 days, and
- Has significant emotional ties to the petitioner
In addition, the parent must:
- Have not had contact with the child while the petitioner had custody;
- Have not contributed to the child’s support;
- Abused the child significantly; or
- Have been convicted of serious crimes of violence.
These issues will be raised at the hearing.
The adoption process commences with filing a petition in the Circuit Court, followed by investigations, reports, and a court hearing to determine the best interests of the child. The court evaluates the fitness of the prospective adoptive parents and ensures that all legal requirements and paperwork are in order before granting or denying the adoption petition.
Access to medical and mental health records is facilitated for adoptive or prospective adoptive parents, allowing them to request relevant information about the biological parents’ medical history to better understand the child’s background and potential health considerations.
Overall, Maryland’s adoption laws provide a comprehensive framework to facilitate adoptions while prioritizing the welfare and best interests of the children involved.