Adoption is a life-changing journey that connects hopeful adoptive families with expectant parents.
Whether you’re considering adoption for your baby’s future or exploring adoption as a way to grow your family, the process can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. This article will walk you through every step, from the initial decision to finalization.
For more information, call 608-821-8220 or email aowinfo@adoptionsofwisconsin.com. Our experienced social workers can provide personalized support based on your situation. You can also visit our nearby office:
Madison
433 W. Washington Ave., Suite 300
608-821-8220
How to Put a Baby Up for Adoption in Kenosha
You love your baby deeply, but you might not be able to give them the future you envision for them. Adoption can provide them with a life full of opportunity and a loving home to grow up in.
Here’s how you can move forward with adoption:
Step 1: Contact an adoption agency to help you navigate the process. We can provide free information and counseling as you decide what’s best for you and your baby.
Step 2: Create an adoption plan based on your preferences. One of our social workers will help you outline what you’re looking for in an adoptive family, what level of communication you’re comfortable with, how the hospital stay will go and more.
Step 3: Choose an adoptive family for your baby. Who do you envision raising and caring for your child? We have profiles of waiting families you can browse online.
Step 4: Give birth and complete the legal steps. After the baby is born, you can file a petition to terminate your parental rights and consent to the adoption.
Step 5: Adjust to life as a birth mother. If you have an open adoption, you can keep in touch with your baby and their adoptive family even after placement.
Adoption Financial Assistance in Kenosha
If you’re an expectant parent, you may qualify for adoption financial assistance. The adoptive family you choose for your baby could cover some of your costs through a licensed adoption agency.
Here’s what support you could receive:
Counseling
Maternity clothes (up to $300)
Transportation for medical- or adoption-related appointments
Pregnancy and childbirth medical expenses
Living expenses (up to $5,000 if necessary)
Birthing classes
A small gift for you (up to $100)
How to Adopt a Baby in Kenosha
The Kenosha adoption process involves five general steps. Here’s what you can expect on your journey:
Step 1: Select an adoption agency. Adoptions of Wisconsin Inc. is fully licensed to facilitate adoption in Kenosha.
Step 2: Become an active family. Before we can show your adoptive family profile to expectant parents, you must complete a home study.
Step 3: Find an adoption opportunity. When a pregnant woman chooses you to be her baby’s parents, you’ll receive one of the most exciting phone calls of your life.
Step 4: Get to know the expectant parents. In an open adoption, you can meet the expecting parents, hear their story and tell them more about your family.
Step 5: Bring your new baby home. After raising your baby for six months, you can get the adoption finalized in court.
Adoption Agencies in Kenosha
Depending on the type of adoption you’re pursuing, there are a few agencies near Kenosha that can help:
Private domestic adoption
Foster care adoption
International adoption
Types of Adoption in Kenosha
There are several types of adoption to consider, depending on your circumstances and preferences:
Infant adoption: In this type of adoption, the expectant parents choose an adoptive family to place their baby with.
Foster care adoption: Through foster care, you can adopt an older child, sibling group or a child with special needs.
International adoption: You will need to navigate international and U.S. adoption laws when adopting a child from another country.
Stepparent adoption: Through this type of adoption, a stepparent can legally adopt their spouse’s child.
Adoption Laws in Kenosha
Understanding Wisconsin’s adoption laws is essential for both expectant and adoptive parents:
Adoption professionals: In Kenosha, Wisconsin, only licensed professionals can facilitate adoptions and complete home studies.
Financial assistance: Expectant parents could receive financial assistance in Wisconsin depending on their individual situation.
Birth fathers: The birth father must consent to the adoption unless a Wisconsin court terminates his rights or they have been absent for over a year.
Consent to the adoption: After the baby is born, birth parents can file a petition to terminate their parental rights.
ICPC: The Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC) law applies to interstate adoptions to ensure the safety of adopted children.
Adoption Requirements in Kenosha
There are no requirements you need to meet to put your baby up for adoption. You can choose the option regardless of your finances, citizenship status or other circumstances. If you need support, we provide free counseling services.
If you want to adopt a baby in Kenosha, you will need to adhere to state requirements. These ensure that you’re ready to care for an adopted child.
Be at least 21 years old.
Be single or married for at least one year.
Have enough space in your home for a child.
Make enough to support your household.
Complete 25 hours of preadoption preparation, including six hours of in-person training and six hours focused on the child’s needs.
Complete a home study.
Kenosha Adoption Costs
Private domestic adoption in Kenosha starts at $30,000. This covers agency fees, legal fees and medical costs for expectant parents. International adoption costs more due to travel expenses and additional legal requirements.
If you want to adopt, you could utilize several different funding sources. For instance, you could host a fundraiser for your friends and family or apply for adoption grants. Every little bit can help you budget for the cost of private domestic adoption.
Foster care adoption is usually more affordable. The state works to reduce financial barriers so more families can adopt children who are waiting for permanent homes.
Other Adoption Professionals in Kenosha
Various professionals can assist you in your adoption journey:
Adoption attorneys: An attorney will handle your legal documentation and be there for your finalization court hearing.
Home study agencies: Our social workers are licensed to assess and approve adoption home studies.
Adoption social workers: Our experienced team provides counseling and support throughout the process.
Foster care services: We can refer you to a reputable foster care agency.
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Adoption is a life-changing decision, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Adoptions of Wisconsin Inc. is here to help. Call 608-821-8220 or email aowinfo@adoptionsofwisconsin.com to get started today.
