Frequently Asked Questions

For Adoptive Families

Adoption is a meaningful and life-changing journey. We know you may have many questions as you begin exploring what adoption could look like for your family.

Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions about our process, our faith-centered approach, and the support we provide every step of the way. Our heart is to offer clarity, compassion, and guidance as you prayerfully consider the path ahead.

  • An open adoption allows for some level of communication between the adoptive family and birth family, which may include letters, photos, or visits. The level of openness is mutually agreed upon and can evolve over time.

  • The adoption process typically includes an application, home study, profile creation, matching with an expectant mother, placement, and finalization, and ongoing training and support.  While every adoption journey is unique, our team walks alongside families at every step—providing guidance, education, prayer, and support. Our goal is to make the process as clear, compassionate, and Christ-centered as possible.

  • Requirements to adopt vary by state and situation but generally include background checks, a completed home study, financial stability, and a safe home environment. We work with families of different backgrounds and life stages and are happy to discuss specific eligibility requirements.

  • No. Homeownership is not required to adopt. Families can live in apartments, rentals, or homes, as long as the environment is safe, stable, and suitable for a child. The home study focuses more on your ability to provide a loving, secure home than the size or ownership of your residence.

  • Yes. Many families who adopt already have biological or adopted children. Having other children does not disqualify you from adoption, and in many cases, it can be a wonderful addition to your family story.

  • Yes! Our faith guides how we support birth mothers and walk alongside adoptive families, with prayer at the center of everything we do.

  • As a faith-based agency, we seek to work with families who share and respect our Christian values. We are happy to discuss expectations openly and answer questions about how faith is integrated into the adoption process.

  • Faith shapes our approach to adoption by emphasizing compassion, grace, and love for everyone involved. We pray with and for families, support birth mothers spiritually and emotionally, and trust God’s guidance throughout each adoption journey.

  • We provide holistic support before, during and after adoption for birth mothers, including emotional care, counseling, spiritual encouragement, and assistance with medical and living expenses as allowed by law. Every expectant mother is treated with dignity, respect, and compassion, regardless of her circumstances.

  • Yes. Birth mothers review our adoptive family profiles and choose the family they feel is the best fit for their child. This empowers expectant mothers and ensures that placements are rooted in mutual trust and respect.

  • Covered expenses may include medical care, counseling, and certain living expenses, depending on state laws. We follow all legal guidelines carefully and are transparent with both birth mothers and adoptive families throughout the process.

  • Yes. Adoption decisions are deeply personal, and birth mothers have the legal right to change their minds within the timeframe allowed by state law. While this can be emotionally difficult, we honor and respect each birth mother’s legal rights and provide support to everyone involved.

  • Contact varies depending on the adoption plan and agreements made before placement. We help guide these conversations to ensure clarity, healthy boundaries, and mutual understanding.

  • Yes. We believe adoption is a lifelong journey, not a one-time event. We offer post-adoption resources, guidance, and support to help adoptive and birth families thrive long after placement.

  • Many families explore grants, fundraising, and employer benefits to help offset adoption costs. We are happy to share resources and guidance to help families navigate financial planning for adoption.

  • In many cases, families may qualify for the federal adoption tax credit and the Ohio Adoption Grant.  We recommend consulting a tax professional to understand eligibility and how this may apply to your specific situation.

  • While not every adoption journey ends in placement, we are committed to transparency and compassion. Financial policies vary by situation, and we clearly explain these details before families move forward.

  • No. Our team members and services are limited to Central and Northern Ohio. We live and work close to home in Sylvania, Toledo, Bowling Green, Findlay, Wauseon, Lima, Solon, Cleveland, Westlake, Avon, Akron, Kent, Medina, Ashland, Mansfield, Canton, Columbus, Granville, Newark, and surrounding areas.

  • Get started by registering here for our free 1-hour Zoom seminar, "Introduction to Spirit of Faith Adoptions: Voices of Adoption." You’ll hear personal stories from both a birth mother and an adoptive family whom SOFA was honored to walk alongside.

  • That’s completely okay! Many families begin with questions and conversations. We’re happy to provide information, resources, and guidance—no pressure, no commitment required. We still encourage you to register here for our free 1-hour Zoom seminar, "Introduction to Spirit of Faith Adoptions: Voices of Adoption."

  • Absolutely. We believe relationships matter, and we welcome the opportunity to connect personally, hear your story, and answer any questions you may have. You can either register here for our free 1-hour Zoom seminar, "Introduction to Spirit of Faith Adoptions: Voices of Adoption" or contact us here.