Help with Your Unplanned Pregnancy

I’m Pregnant

You might be scared and unsure. You may feel alone and overwhelmed. Or maybe you just want to learn more. If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy or have recently given birth and want to discuss your options, we offer a safe space for you to talk it through. We can offer the information, support, and resources you need to make the best plan for you and your child. Contact Spence-Chapin and speak to a counselor today.
Call 800-321-5683 (LOVE) email [email protected] or text 646-306-2586.

YOUR OPTIONS

Knowing all your options when facing an unplanned pregnancy can help you make a decision you feel confident about. Talking through your options with a social worker in a safe and nonjudgmental environment can help you choose the option that is best for you and help you put your decision into action.

Adoption

Adoption is a loving, bittersweet, and thoughtful plan where a birth parent selects an adoptive family to raise their baby when they are unable to do so. The adoption process allows you, the birth parent, to carefully choose an adoptive family who can fulfill your hopes and dreams for your baby, and to decide on the type of ongoing relationship you want to have with that family.

Adoption can be a secure and permanent option for your baby. In an open adoption, you can remain a part of your baby’s life. You can see them grow and develop through pictures, videos, letters, and visits. We can answer all your questions and let you know what your rights are in the adoption process. There may also be additional services available to you while you are making an adoption plan. We can guide you as you weigh your options and every step of the way.

Parenting

Babies and children are often associated with feelings of joy and happiness, but parenting can also be overwhelming—emotionally and financially—and you may want someone to talk to.

Whether you already have children or are thinking about parenthood for the first time, we can help you explore family and social supports that you may have to help you in your decision. We can connect you to local resources and provide you with the space you need to make the best decision for you and your family.

FOSTER CARE

We can discuss your options should you anticipate that the Department of Child Safety (DCS), Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), or Department of Children and Families (DCFS) will interfere with your ability to take your child home after birth. We can assist with either helping you to avoid the child welfare system through adoption, or help you understand your options in potentially parenting or reunifying with your child.

Abortion

If you are considering abortion as the best choice for you, we can help you understand the laws and options available to you in an unbiased and non-judgmental space

Abortions are time sensitive, and the type of abortion your doctor recommends depends on how far along you are in your pregnancy. We will help you get connected to local abortion providers such as Choices Medical Center and Planned Parenthood to learn more about abortion as an option for you.

No matter what your situation, we are here to discuss any option you might be considering. Reach out to us whenever you feel ready.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: How much does it cost to use Spence-Chapin’s services? A: Our services to birth/expectant parents are 100% free. In addition, we can also provide pregnancy-related medical and living expenses. These may include expenses for rent, utilities, groceries, and transportation, and more. Your social worker can support you in determining what you qualify for within state guidelines.

Q: I am 9 months pregnant (or I have already delivered). Is it too late to make an adoption plan for my baby? A: No, many women begin working with us later in their pregnancies or even after a baby is born. We are here to help whenever you are ready.

Q: Can I choose and meet the adoptive family for my baby?A: Absolutely. You may already have an idea of the type of family you are looking for to raise your baby. Spence-Chapin has a diverse group of waiting families who are ready to welcome your baby into their lives. You will have the opportunity to choose and meet the adoptive family. Your social worker will be there to support you every step of the way. You can feel confident that all of Spence-Chapin’s prospective adoptive families are carefully screened and prepared to provide a safe and loving home for your child.

Q: What if I do not want to meet the adoptive family? A: It is always your choice whether or not to meet your child’s adoptive family. Spence-Chapin is here to help support your adoption plan and your choices.

Q: What if I have used drugs or alcohol during my pregnancy? A: Spence-Chapin can help you make an adoption plan for your baby and find the right family even if there has been drug or alcohol use during your pregnancy. We have adoptive families who are ready to welcome your baby with open arms.

Q: What if my baby has a medical issue or a developmental delay?A: Spence-Chapin works with families who are looking to parent babies and children with all types of medical and developmental needs. We have families who are well equipped and prepared to take on the specific needs of your child.

Q: Does the biological father have to be involved in the adoption planning? A: Spence-Chapin always encourages both parents to be involved in planning an adoption, but Spence-Chapin has also helped many single parents make an adoption plan as well. Spence-Chapin will connect you with an experienced social worker who can talk to you about your unique circumstances.

Q: Can I visit with my baby while I am in the hospital? A: Yes. You and your social worker will talk about your plans for the birth and hospital stay. All the decisions in the hospital are yours to make, including who you want to be present at the birth, and how much time you would like to spend with your baby. Your social worker will help you communicate your wishes to hospital staff.

Q: Do I have to make a final decision about adoption as soon as my baby is born? A: No. At Spence-Chapin we know that right after your baby is born can be an emotional time, and we are able to offer you some extra time and space to carefully think through your decision. That is why Spence-Chapin offers free interim care to all our birth parents. Our Interim Care Program is temporary care that allows you to retain your parental rights while you are deciding what is best for you and your baby. Your baby will be cared for by one of our interim care providers during your decision-making process so you can finalize your plan without pressure. You can also choose to place your baby directly with the adoptive family you have chosen.

Q: I am under 18, can I make an adoption plan for my baby?

A: Yes, you can. We can help you understand your rights, consider all your options, and support you in your decision-making process.

Q: Must I place my baby in Interim Care? A: No. Interim care is a program we offer to birth parents who want temporary care for their baby while they are deciding on a permanent plan. We understand that women and their partners need time and breathing space to make a decision about the future of their family, especially after the recent birth of a child. Placing their newborn in Interim Care allows biological parents continue counseling to fully explore their options while knowing their baby is being cared for by a nurturing caregiver in a loving home. Biological parents can maintain their full parental rights while the child is in temporary care.

Q: Can I have contact with my child as he or she grows? A: Yes. All Spence-Chapin adoptive families are open to having ongoing contact with you throughout your child’s life. Contact can be in person or through emails. You can receive pictures and updates of your child and his or her adoptive family if you choose. Spence-Chapin and the adoptive family will also respect your wishes if you do not want to have ongoing contact.

Q: How do I begin? A: Whatever your circumstance, when you are ready, you can reach out to us by text, phone, or email. We are available to meet with you virtually or in person at your convenience.

Considering Adoption?

Learn more about adoption and the process

She's
Pregnant

If your significant other, family member, or client is facing an unplanned pregnancy, we can help provide you with resources and guidance.

Already
Parenting

If you have already had your child but are unsure about parenting, we can help you think through all your options in a non-judgmental and confidential space, 24/7.