 Unplanned Pregnancy?
- Maybe people are telling you what is “best” for you.
- Maybe you’re afraid to tell anyone you are pregnant.
- Maybe you’ve thought about adoption, but have only heard “bad” stories.
- Maybe you’ve thought of parenting, but don’t have a way to make ends meet.
We’re not here to tell you what to do. We're here to help you look at your choices.
We're here for you.
We're here:
- To offer support and resources.
- To assist you in making a plan that meets your needs and makes you feel comfortable.
- To empower you to create a positive outcome for you and your child.
You Have Choices
We're here to help you look at and talk about all of your choices. If you are thinking about making an adoption plan, you have many choices including choosing a family, meeting a family, and deciding how much future contact you would like to have. This could include pictures, updates, visits, and telephone calls. We also offer completely open adoptions with ongoing post-placement contact, if that is your wish. We will stand by you no matter what.
Adoption is a Loving Plan
There are parents who love the child they’ve given birth to, but are unable to raise that child. There are parents who cannot give birth but are ready to provide a permanent, loving home to a child.
Adoption can be a loving plan for everyone.
We work with loving, responsible adoptive families who would be sensitive to your needs and difficult choices.
We Can Help
We can help with housing, pregnancy related living expenses, medical care, transportation, and legal services. You can get help based on your needs and what the law allows.
We are available to you for counseling for as long as you need it.
We will be here for you now and through the years.
All Services are Free
All services are free to birthparents, no matter what you decide. You will not have to pay.
Free professional counseling will help you explore all your choices and think through how each one would work out in your life.
Raquel can be reached at her toll-free birthparent line: (800) 872-5232.
You will be treated with understanding and respect.
Frequently Asked Questions from Birth Parents
Do I get to choose a family? Can I meet them?
YES. Most birth parents choose the adoptive family for their child and meet them at least once prior to the placement. Some continue to meet even after adoptive placement. We have many different kinds of families to choose from. They come from a variety of religious, ethnic, and lifestyle backgrounds. What really matters is what is important to you.
How will I know my baby is OK?
You can receive photographs, updates, telephone calls, and visits.
Does the birthfather need to be involved?
YES. If at all possible, we encourage his participation.
What if I change my mind?
All of your options remain open to you until you sign the adoption surrender after your child’s birth. We will support you no matter what you decide.
For more questions please contact:
Raquel Woodard, MSW, LICSW, BCD
Coordinator, Birth Parent and Children Services
(800) 872-5232
(508) 875-3100 X200
deldridge@jfsmw.org
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