Are you pregnant and thinking about placing your child for adoption? You might wonder what the adoption process entails and what resources are needed. Though navigating your next steps might feel challenging, support is available.
The Missouri Alternatives to Abortion Program connects pregnant women to providers that offer adoption services, information, and more. If you decide to pursue this path, know you’ll have what you need to navigate every step.
Understanding Adoption
If you don’t want an abortion but also don’t wish to parent your child, adoption can be an excellent option. Placing your child with an adoptive family of your choosing allows you to shape their future.
Though adoption can be a challenging decision because of the emotions it brings, it can also offer peace of mind by giving you more control. As the birth mother, you craft an adoption plan that outlines your goals and preferences. You can choose the adoptive family, and they will undergo background checks and home studies to ensure they offer a safe home.
Multiple types of adoption are available, each offering a different level of communication:
Open Adoption
You’ll form a relationship with the child and adoptive family and establish contact via letters, phone calls, visits, or other means of communication. You can work with your child’s adoptive parents to determine the relationship that best fits your needs and comfort level.
Keep in mind that open adoption isn’t legally enforceable in Missouri, so it’s best to find a family who mutually desires to stay in contact.
Semi-Open Adoption
You will exchange limited information (like first names) with the adoptive family and child, and you communicate through a third party, such as an adoption agency or adoption attorney.
Closed Adoption
Though this type of adoption is less common, it allows for total privacy. All parties’ identities are entirely anonymous, and you won’t have contact with the adoptive family or child.
Only you know what’s best for your pregnancy. No one can pressure you into making a decision you’re uncomfortable with, and you deserve to learn about the adoption process before moving forward.
What Our Providers Offer
Our providers will help you determine whether adoption is right for you. Various forms of assistance are available, from long-term emotional support to agencies ready to explore this option with you.
Providers can also help you with material and financial needs. As the birth mother, you don’t pay for any adoption services, and your medical expenses will be covered if not done so by insurance. Additionally, many women receive help with maternity clothing, housing support, transportation, and more.
Remember, this is your decision. Help is available to help you make an informed decision.
Ready to get started? You are eligible for the Missouri Alternatives to Abortion Program if you are a pregnant woman who:
- Wants to carry your unborn child to term.
- Is a United States resident who lives in Missouri
- Makes less than 185% of the federal poverty level
With the right resources, you can take your next steps confidently. Contact us today to learn more about Missouri’s Alternatives to Abortion Program. You can also email DFAS.A2APROGRAMS@dss.mo.gov with any questions.
