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Choosing adoption for your baby is a positive and loving decision. This path can be made easier with the right resources. If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy in Massachusetts and considering adoption, you can rest assured there are plenty of Massachusetts local adoption resources to help you.
In this guide, we will cover all types of local adoption resources available in the Commonwealth. From state agencies to private organizations, support groups to educational materials – there are plenty of resources upon which you can rely.
Understanding Adoption Options in Massachusetts
Adoption can feel like an overwhelming path. Before diving into the adoption process, it can help to learn a bit about adoption first. What are your options? Here is a brief breakdown of the types of adoptions available.
Foster Care Adoption Through DCF
Foster care is a state-run system that handles the temporary and permanent placement of children in Massachusetts. This type of adoption is a great option for adoptive parents looking to adopt a child in a very inexpensive way. When a child is placed in foster care, however, it means they have been removed from their homes by order of a family court judge. A child in this circumstance is typically removed due to an unsafe or unsuitable home environment. Foster care is not a voluntary choice made by expectant/birth parents.
Domestic Infant Adoption
Domestic infant adoption is handled by a private adoption agency. This type of adoption professional handles the adoption of infants and young children whose parents lovingly choose adoption. This professional also offers supportive services that can assist the expectant/birth parent(s) before and after the adoption is complete.
With a private adoption agency, every aspect of the adoption is handled with care – from the legal services and adoption plan designing to the counseling and medical care. Even the ongoing support after the adoption is complete is offered by the adoption agency.
Learn More About Domestic Infant Adoption
Key Massachusetts Adoption Agencies and Organizations
One of the most important Massachusetts local adoption resources is the adoption agencies and organizations that support adoptions. There are several key adoption agencies, public programs, and supportive nonprofit organizations to guide expectant/birth parents throughout the adoption journey in Massachusetts. The following is a brief breakdown of the organizations that are available.
Licensed Private Adoption Agencies
Adoptions With Love is a fully licensed, full-service nonprofit domestic adoption agency operating across Massachusetts, offering support for expectant/birth mothers around the country. Our organization offers free consultations, counseling and adoption placement support, and more supportive services needed for the emotional, mental, and physical health and well-being of mother and baby.
These services include medical coverage and care, financial assistance, legal support, adoption design services, and counseling before and after the adoption is complete. All these services are free for expectant/birth parents planning adoption.
Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange (MARE)
MARE is a private nonprofit that works to bridge the gap between the foster care system and permanent placement for children and teens unable to be reunited with their birth families. This organization works with the Commonwealth’s Department of Children & Families (DCF). MARE also works diligently to screen and recruit families that can meet each child’s unique needs. It is a wonderful organization for children and teens who have been removed from their homes and cannot return to live with their biological parents or relatives.
State and Government Resources
The Department of Children and Families (DCF) handles the temporary and permanent placement of children within state care, working with children up to age 18. This can be an option for families looking to adopt in a very inexpensive way. It is not a voluntary choice for expectant/birth parents looking to lovingly place their child for adoption.
The Office of Child Advocate (OCA). The OCA oversees state child-welfare agencies to guarantee quality care and protection for vulnerable youths that are in the state system.
The Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) coordinates statewide family health, behavioral health, and social support services.
Adoption Support Services Available in Massachusetts
Placing a baby for adoption is a life-changing experience. It is vital to feel supported throughout the journey. This includes services that assist you financially, physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Counseling and Emotional Support
You have the right to receive professional counseling services – at no cost to you – throughout the adoption process. At Adoptions With Love, expectant/birth parents may receive 24/7 counseling support, as needed. This extends up to a year after the adoption is complete. Birth mothers are strongly encouraged to continue counseling after giving birth and placing their baby for adoption. The postpartum period is a crucial time for mental health services.
Post-Adoption Support and Resources
Aside from the counseling services available, there are other post-adoption resources available. Peer-to-peer support groups can be invaluable after placing a baby for adoption, as birth mothers can share their experiences, tips, and advice, and – in the process – help others feel less alone.
There are also literary resources available, such as pamphlets and books that can help support birth parents after their baby’s adoption is complete. Your adoption agency can ensure you have access to these useful materials.
How to Get Started with Adoption in Massachusetts
If you are considering adoption for your baby, you should know that you need not face this journey alone. You can be supported – every step of the way – with the guidance and care of a reputable and experienced adoption agency. Adoptions With Love has been working with expectant/birth parents since 1986. Our compassionate social workers, counselors, and legal team can help you design an adoption plan that feels right for you, offering you care, compassion, and dignity. Call Adoptions With Love any time of day, any day of the week: 617-964-4357, text (confidentially) 617-777-0072, or contact us online.