What is adoption?
Adoption is the legal placement of a child with people who will raise the child as their own.
What is unique about Hannah's House?
Hannah's House is a loving home for women considering adoption to come and stay and receive the support they need. The program is also unique in that we are not affiliated with any adoption agency or legal practice. This ensures women are supported in making the best choice for themselves, free from any pressure or outside influence. Our goal is to provide a secure, supportive and loving environment.
Can I contact someone who has chosen adoption or been a resident at Hannah's House?
Absolutely. We have many women who have chosen adoption that are eager to share their adoption journey and answer any questions you may have.
How do I get in touch with someone from Casa Teresa's "Hannah's House" program?
You may call us directly at 888-619-6628 or email us at info@casateresa.com. We would be happy to speak with you regarding any questions you might have.
What is an “open” adoption?
An open adoption involves an agreement between a child’s adoptive family and birth family that says that the two families will keep in touch. In other words, open adoption allows for birth parents to contact the child they gave birth to through letters, pictures, and visits with the child and the family. There is a considerable range of how “open” the arrangement is. For many women, it means the adoptive family will send letters and pictures one or two times a year. For others, it means having a relationship with the family that includes visits with them.
What is a “closed” adoption?
A closed adoption is also an option. Due to a variety of reasons, a number of women opt for a closed adoption which does not entail continued contact with the adoptive family.
Are you concerned about the privacy of your decision to place your child for adoption?
We support the birthmother’s right to choose a confidential adoption if they desire one. Assistance is available regarding questions you may have about your state’s laws on the privacy of an adoption decision.
How many families are waiting to adopt?
An estimated 2 million families are waiting to adopt, which is forty families for every one child placed for adoption.
What qualifications must prospective adoptive parents have?
At most adoption agencies, adoptive parents go through a lengthy process in order to become approved as suitable adoptive parents. To become approved, they go through what is called a “home study” which includes a number of interviews with the families. Each agency prepares their families differently, but they all do their best to make sure the family is ready for a baby.
How much do birth parents know about adoptive parents?
Birth parents can either be very involved, or completely uninvolved, when choosing an adoptive family for their child. Birth parents are often given profiles of each family. Profiles include information about potential adoptive families’ ages, their physical and personality descriptions, their marriage, religion, lifestyle, occupation, education, feelings about birth parents, and more. A woman may also contact the adoptive family with any questions, as well as arrange to meet with them in person.
How soon after birth is the baby placed in the adoptive home?
Each state has different laws about this. There is usually a waiting period of 48-hours or more before a child can be placed. Contact a local adoption agency to find out what the laws are in your state.
Do you provide adoption referrals?
We refer to several qualified agencies in addition to lawyers who can arrange private adoptions. We are selective, referring to those agencies and lawyers who server your best interest. They are mostly based in the Orange County area, and we are happy to set up an appointment for you.
Can I select a family from a state other than my own?
Yes. This is both legal and feasible. The Internet allows you to access to thousands of waiting families that will meet your hopes for the ideal family.
