Our skilled, caring staff will help you carefully consider your options, whether parenting, adoption, or another plan of care. Contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our services are confidential and judgement-free. From providing referrals for needed services to assisting you in making a plan for your child’s future, we can help.
If you choose adoption for your child, we can help you through the entire adoption process. This service is available throughout North Carolina and provides:
- A diverse and inclusive selection of adoptive families who have been thoroughly screened and who reside in North Carolina.
- Education on your rights as a birth parent during the adoption process.
- Knowledgeable and compassionate staff who work closely with you to carefully consider all options before committing to an adoption plan.
- Support during your hospital stay and assistance in communication of your plans to hospital staff.
- Lifelong support services that provide ongoing support for you, adoptive families, and children who are adopted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to questions about placing an infant for adoption in North Carolina.
Is my child going into foster care or state custody?
No. When you choose adoption through CHS, your child is not placed in foster care, and the Department of Social Services (DSS) is not involved. You are voluntarily making an adoption plan, and you have the right to be part of the process, including choosing the adoptive family, creating a hospital plan, and receiving support throughout. You are in control of the decision and process.
How does adoption work in North Carolina?
In NC, there are two types of adoption.
- An identified/open adoption is when the birth parent directly chooses and connects with the adoptive parents. This includes a one-time exchange of identifying information.
- A non-identified/closed adoption is when the birth parent and adoptive family have no contact after the placement, and no identifying information is shared. Birth parents can still choose the family and will receive regular pictures and letter updates through a non-identified adoption if they would like.
Can I choose the adoptive family?
Yes. You may work with CHS to find a family that aligns with your values and hopes for your child. Adoptions can be identified or closed depending on the birth parents’ and adoptive family’s preferences. In closed adoptions, birth parents have the option to select the adoptive family or to have the agency select the adoptive family, but no identifying information will be shared with either option. In identified adoptions, you can be directly involved in selecting the adoptive family for your child.
Does the birth father have rights?
Yes. In North Carolina, the birth father has legal rights. If he is known, he must be notified and given an opportunity to consent or not consent to the adoption. If he is unknown or cannot be located, the court may take additional legal steps. Both birth parents’ rights must be legally terminated for the adoption to proceed.
Can my child find me?
North Carolina law allows adopted individuals to request certain information once they reach age 18. This may include non-identifying information or, in some cases, CHS may act as a liaison or “go between” through our Confidential Intermediary Program.
Does it cost anything to make an adoption plan for my baby?
No. Making a plan of adoption does not cost the birth parent anything. It is free and confidential.
Can I change my mind after signing the adoption paperwork?
Yes. In North Carolina, when a birth parent signs a relinquishment, both the birth mother and birth father have 7 days to change their mind (known as the revocation period).
How are adoptive families screened?
All CHS adoptive families with CHS must go through a thorough preplacement assessment process conducted by a qualified social worker. Only families who meet strict safety, stability and state requirements are approved to adopt. This screening process includes but is not limited to:
Background checks
Interviews
Home visits
Financial and medical evaluations
References
Adoption education and preparation
Want to know more about our Birth Parent Services?
For more information fill out the confidential form below.
