Adoptive Parents Form Nonprofit

Nonprofit group to aid international adoptions
When Petal residents Christie and Eddie Daniels decided to adopt, they knew it wouldn't be easy - or cheap. At roughly $20,000 for one child, China is the least costly international adoption option. And in Russia, the most expensive, the cost is about $35,000, according to Pat Lee, International Program Director of Alabama-based Children of the World.

For families like the Daniels - Christie is a teacher, Eddie is a government contractor - that's lot of money.

We looked into loans," Christie Daniels said. "At one point, we were having to look at refinancing our house to pay for an adoption. I don't want anyone to have to do that."

That's why Daniels and friend Heather Davis, who with husband Mark is also in the process of adopting a child from China, are starting a nonprofit organization - which they've named Open Hearts, Open Homes - that will give grants to families pursuing international adoption.