How to Prepare for Explaining Your Adoption Plan to Friends and Family

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Deciding to place a baby for adoption is a very big decision. For some women, adoption makes the most sense, and it can benefit both the birth mother and the child. And when you’ve made that choice, one of the next steps to take is explaining your decision to others. This isn’t always easy, but once you do, it can take some of the anxiety off your shoulders. And when you place your baby for adoption in Louisiana with St. Elizabeth Foundation, we support you through it all. We understand the challenges you are facing. And we want to help you meet those challenges and find a brighter future for you and the child. Learn how you can prepare before telling friends and family about your adoption plan. And see how St. Elizabeth can provide you with extra support.

Preparing to Tell Others About Your Adoption Plan

Before telling others about your plan, be ready for the possibility that they may not take it well initially. Even when you know you’re making the right decision, others still may not understand. Especially when it comes to a decision as personal as adoption. 

Be prepared for a conversation that could become emotional. They may express surprise and confusion similar to how you felt when you first learned you were pregnant. So it’s essential to try to remain patient because they may react out of surprise. 

Also, it’s important to understand that you can’t control how other people will react. They may say things to try to change your mind. But remember that the only person who can make this choice is you. And you need to make the decision that you think will be best for yourself and the child. So listen to what others have to say and do your best to stay positive. And understand that this may be a lot for them to take in.

Also, it can help to make a list of the why reasons adoption makes the most sense for you. Women who place a child for adoption tend to have higher-paying jobs, for example. And they may be more likely to finish high school. Also, they may receive more job training and education after high school. Note your reasons for choosing adoption so you can keep them in mind when you need to.

Getting Support From St. Elizabeth Foundation

Something to remember is that no matter how others react, we’re ready to provide you with support. St. Elizabeth helps with caring counselors who listen. They can also offer guidance when you need it most. And this includes before and after you’ve decided to tell friends and family about your adoption plan. Also, our counseling services continue even after the child is born. So, if you want someone to talk to, we’re here when you need us.

When You Decide to Place a Baby for Adoption in Louisiana, St. Elizabeth Foundation Is There for You

Making the decision to place a baby for adoption can be difficult. But when you make that choice with St. Elizabeth Foundation, we work with you each step of the way. We have assisted many other women in navigating their unplanned pregnancies. And we have also helped many children find loving homes and welcoming families. If you’ve decided that adoption would be the best choice for you, get in touch with us. Call St. Elizabeth at 225-769-8888 or contact us online. We’re always ready to talk about your unique situation and help you find the support you need.

Navigating Transracial Adoption in an Unwanted Pregnancy

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As your chosen adoption agency, we’re here to help you when you need us. One concern that many parents and mothers face is transracial adoption. Especially now, these can feel like hot topics, causing many to question if it’s a good idea or not. However, as adoption professionals, we’re here to help you understand how these situations work. If you’re going through an unwanted pregnancy or want to adopt, see how our adoption agency can help you.

For Birth Mothers

We can understand if you have any concerns about transracial adoption. Even if this is an unwanted pregnancy, it’s natural to want the best for your child. But, at St. Elizabeth Foundation, we design our adoption process with your interests in mind. 

Louisiana is a closed-adoption state. But with the help of St. Elizabeth, we can also offer open and semi-open adoptions. This is a perfect option for those who are concerned about their child being adopted by someone belonging to another race and want to preserve their heritage. Do yourself a favor and begin the process with St. Elizabeth. We’re more than happy to help you navigate this process and make it easier for you through your pregnancy.

For Adoptive Parents

There are a number of challenges that come with adoption, no matter if you adopt a child who shares your race or is a completely different one. Being a different race just brings up a different set of hurdles. But when you go in eyes open, it’s easier to navigate this life for both you and your child.

One tip we will give is to learn how to care for specific needs that certain races have. A big one is hair. You may be surprised, but people of different races have different types of hair. And every type has its own unique needs. So, for example, if you and your spouse are white and are planning on adopting an African American child, you don’t want their hair to look unkempt and frizzy. It’s best to do your research or even ask professionals to teach you. 

Continuing, it’s also important to not racially isolate your child as they grow. Some individuals who grew up racially isolated felt that they had a fractured identity and had to overcome and learn the background they didn’t know they had. 

Issues like these can be addressed with an open mind and an inclusive attitude. Feel free to ask us any questions you may have before jumping into the adoption process. 

An Unwanted Pregnancy Is a Chance for Adoption

If you’re going through an unwanted pregnancy, there’s always the chance to choose adoption. Begin the process today by getting in touch with us at info@stelizabethfoundation.org or by calling 225-769-8888. One of our members of staff will be more than happy to begin the process and answer any questions or concerns you may have. Let’s find the best situation for you and your child.

How Adoption Can Make the Most Sense

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When you first find out that you’re pregnant, it can create a flood of different emotions. Sometimes this includes joy and excitement about becoming a mother. But when the pregnancy isn’t planned, it can also create feelings of fear and anxiety. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we understand this can be a difficult time, especially when your pregnancy is unexpected. But, when you choose to place your child for adoption in Louisiana, it can help you take charge of your life again. Learn how St. Elizabeth can provide crucial support for pregnant women to help them feel empowered during a difficult time.

What to Expect

When you learn that you’re pregnant, it’s important to understand that you have options. This is why St. Elizabeth provides caring counselors who can help you better understand those options to make the decision that’s best for you. They won’t judge you. However, what they will do is provide you with information and guidance that helps you navigate these tough choices. 

And, if you choose to place your child for adoption in Louisiana—we are ready to support you from day one. You can choose the type of adoption plan and hospital plan you want. And you will ultimately decide who will be your child’s adoptive family. And there are many caring families who would love to welcome a child into their loving home.

You don’t have to worry about making these decisions alone, because we’re here for you. We ultimately want this process to make things better for everyone involved. And this includes you, the baby, and the baby’s adoptive family. So you can expect support from us from beginning to end—and even after that! Because we also provide counseling after the birth for as long as you need it.

Potential Advantages You May Not Have Expected

After placing a child for adoption, many women can feel an increased sense of empowerment and confidence. And that can translate into a brighter future. For instance, did you know that many pregnant women who place a child for adoption in Louisiana tend to have higher-paying jobs? And they may also be more likely to finish high school. In addition, they may receive more job training and education after high school. 

Also, when you choose adoption through St. Elizabeth Foundation, we’re with you all the way. We can offer assistance to help you with many of the fees associated with your pregnancy. And this includes your living, legal, medical, and counseling costs. So you won’t have to worry about facing these challenges by yourself.

Wondering If It’s the Right Choice to Place Your Child for Adoption in Louisiana? We Can Help

If you’re thinking of placing your child for adoption in Louisiana, it’s time to speak with a trusted adoption agency. St. Elizabeth Foundation is a licensed non-profit organization that has been dedicated to improving lives through adoption since 1988. And we want to help you find the best way forward. Please give us a call at 225-769-8888 or contact us online. When you’re ready to explore your options, we’re here for you.

Reacting to an Unplanned Pregnancy

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In life, there are a lot of unexpected things that happen from time to time. However, while an unplanned pregnancy may not be in your life plan, you could turn things around to help someone else and your unborn child. Discover how St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to help when you’re struggling with an unplanned pregnancy, and get in touch with our Baton Rouge agency to see what can be done.

It’s Alright to Be Emotional

When you’re going through an unplanned pregnancy, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with the situation. There might be people in your life who make you feel as if you’re over or even underreacting. But no matter what you’re feeling, it’s valid and understandable.

So take a moment for yourself. Once you’re calm, you can begin to think about the next steps for yourself and the child. 

Taking the Next Steps

For an unplanned pregnancy, there are a number of options available to you. As we’ve stated before in past blogs, there are three major options to choose from. Some people may look at abortion, others choose adoption, and some choose to parent the child themselves. Each option has a different outcome, and our staff is more than happy to go over each option with you. But what happens if you do choose adoption? Take a look. 

Our Process

At St. Elizabeth, we not only put the needs of the child first but also the needs of the birth parent. That’s why we have a well-rounded process to ensure the best possible outcome for all parties.

To begin, we go over your options. And, if you choose adoption, we’re ready to help with counseling. We know it’s a difficult time, and as professionals, we can help you make an adoption plan. 

Once there’s a plan in place, it’s time to choose a family. St. Elizabeth has a number of pre-approved families to choose from, so you can have confidence that your baby is taken care of. We also continue to support you as your pregnancy progresses, and you can make the decisions you’re comfortable with for delivery as well. 

But it doesn’t stop there. Even though Louisiana is a closed-adoption state, we’re able to offer you the choice of open or semi-open options as well. It’s entirely up to you to decide. After everything has been decided and your adoption plan has been completed, we’re still there for you with our post-placement counseling. As we said, we want what’s best for you.

Let Our Baton Rouge Agency Help You With Your Unplanned Pregnancy

Are you looking for assistance with your unplanned pregnancy? Our Baton Rouge adoption agency can help you. Get in touch with us to begin the process and see how we can begin. Give us a call at 225-769-8888 or send us a message online, and one of our members of staff will be happy to aid you with your journey. Let’s find the best course of action for you and see how we can help.

Choosing to Place a Child for Adoption?

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Being pregnant can be pretty scary, especially if it’s your first time or if you’re not ready. But it’s okay. Take a moment, take a breath, and remember—you have options. One of these options is to choose adoption. By choosing adoption, you could not only help yourself, but also the baby and a family that is ready for their new family member. But why choose adoption? And even if you do choose it, where do you even begin? Don’t worry. St. Elizabeth Foundation professionals are ready to help you with your adoption journey in New Orleans.

Why Do People Choose Adoption

Choosing adoption is a big choice. And like many big choices, everyone has their reasons.

One of the biggest reasons is simply that they cannot afford to support the child. There’s no shame in admitting this. In fact, it’s the responsible thing to do. After all, pregnancy is a very expensive thing, and children continue being expensive. So many mothers choose adoption because then their child can have a more fulfilling life.

On the other hand, some people just aren’t ready to become mothers. Or they don’t want to be one at all. Being a parent is a big responsibility, one that takes a lot of maturity to handle. 

Perhaps the mother in question also just doesn’t want another baby. And there are plenty of reasons for that as well. These mothers choose adoption because then the child will have a family that wants them deeply.

There are many reasons why people choose adoption for their current pregnancy. And all of these reasons are good reasons. Even so, there are plenty of stigmas surrounding adoption. For example, some expecting mothers may feel as if they are “giving up” on this child. But the thing is, it’s quite the opposite. You’re choosing to give this child their best shot at life.

What Can St. Elizabeth Do to Help? 

At St. Elizabeth, we’re ready to help you with your adoption plan. For expectant mothers, we offer the control you need to get through this. 

After contacting us, our counselors are going to help you look through your options. If you do choose adoption, you also get to choose your baby’s family. We ensure the families we offer live up to expectations to provide a loving home and a bright future, giving the child their best chance. The birth is also your choice. We encourage you to have as comfortable of a birth as possible. And if you’d like, you have the option of either an open or closed adoption. Everything is designed with your comfort in mind.

But the assistance doesn’t stop there with St. Elizabeth. We also provide support every step of the way, even after birth. Ask us about helping you with living, medical, counseling, and legal costs.

Contact Our Adoption Agency in New Orleans

Are you ready to begin the process? We’re more than happy to help you begin! Learn more about the process and possibilities by contacting us online or giving us a call at 225-769-8888. We’re also available through email through info@stelizabethfoundation.org.  

For more info about adoption, make sure to also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. We always have more to share and love to inform others about the beauty of adoption.

Unwanted Pregnancy — Understand Your Options

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An unplanned pregnancy can leave you with a lot of questions. And it may seem like the answers you seek aren’t always easy to find. You may not feel that you are ready to become a mother. And you may not know if you have the strength to give birth to a child at this point in your life. 

If you are facing an unwanted pregnancy in Baton Rouge, you don’t have to do it alone. St. Elizabeth Foundation offers free counseling services to help you find the answers you are looking for. And, once you get a clearer understanding of your options, you can begin to make the decisions that will be best for you.

So Many Questions

We understand that many young women who become pregnant aren’t ready to be mothers. And, when it comes to an unwanted pregnancy in Baton Rouge, there are typically three options: adoption, abortion, and parenting anyway. None of these choices are easy for a young woman to make, and each comes with its own consequences.

To find the choice that will make the most sense in your life, it’s important to first ask yourself some critical questions.

Adoption

  • If I carry my pregnancy to term, will I be able to part with my child?
  • What kind of support can an adoption agency provide to help me through my pregnancy?
  • If I place my child with another family, will I be able to see them again?
  • Will I be able to choose my child’s family?
  • If my child is adopted, can I continue to receive emotional support from the adoption agency after giving birth?

Abortion

  • How will I feel after I have terminated my pregnancy?
  • Could I regret this decision later in life?
  • At this point in my pregnancy, would an abortion be legal in my state?
  • Do I have religious or spiritual beliefs that would make me question this decision?

Parenting*

  • Can I afford to parent a child?
  • What happens to children who live much of their lives in the foster care system?
  • What does it mean when my child becomes a ward of the state?
  • Will I have any control or options if my child is taken by the state into foster care?
  • Am I ready to be a parent? How could it affect the child negatively if I am not ready?

*Are you feeling overwhelmed with a baby or young child and don’t think you can make it work? Consider calling St. Elizabeth or using a safe haven site.

At St. Elizabeth, our kind and compassionate counselors are ready to help you explore each of these questions. They have worked with many young women who have been in your position, giving them the facts and support they needed to make informed decisions. 

And, if you choose adoption through St. Elizabeth, your counselor can give you a step-by-step explanation of what to expect during and after your pregnancy. Because St. Elizabeth doesn’t just provide assistance through your pregnancy: we also offer you emotional support after your child’s birth for as long as you need it.

Unwanted Pregnancy in Baton Rouge? You Have Options

If you’ve recently learned that you are pregnant, it’s important to have a firm understanding of your options before deciding what to do next. Our counselors want to help you find the choice that’s best for you, whatever it may be. 
To speak with a counselor about your pregnancy, give us a call at 225-769-8888 or contact us online for a judgment-free conversation. You don’t have to face these challenges alone. We’re here for you.

Searching for an Adoption Agency Near You? Let Us Help

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Young women who have recently learned they are pregnant often face a lot of fear and uncertainty. An unplanned pregnancy might make you feel scared and alone. But knowing your options can help you feel in control of your life again.

We understand the struggle you are going through, and we’re here to help you through it. Find out how St. Elizabeth Foundation can give you the information and support you need to help you feel empowered and feel in control again.

Understanding Your Options

You may not feel like it right now, but you’re stronger than you think. That’s why St. Elizabeth is dedicated to supporting you from the beginning. When you contact us, we will connect you with a kind and experienced counselor. This pressure-free meeting will help you understand your options and get your questions answered. 

Knowing what you can do is the first step to taking control of your life. And once you understand what you can do, you can decide which choice makes the most sense. Our counselors are ready to support you through this process, one step at a time.

Searching for an Adoption Agency Near You? We’re Here to Help

Meeting with a St. Elizabeth counselor gives you a chance to learn which choice will make the most sense in your life. And, if you decide that an adoption plan is right for you, we will hold your hand through each step of the process. And this includes choosing a family for your baby.

We will find the best candidates to provide your baby with a loving home, and you will get to select your baby’s family. This means that you will choose the parents who care for your baby. You are in charge of this process. And we will give you the information and assistance you need to help you throughout.

Supporting You Through It All

An unplanned pregnancy can bring challenges. But when it comes to living, medical, legal, and counseling costs, you don’t have to face them alone. We provide pregnancy assistance to reduce your stress and help you get relief. This assistance can give you the safety and security you need when you need it most.

We understand what a big decision it can be to choose an adoption plan. But if you make that choice, we will be there for you through the entire process, including after your child is born. St. Elizabeth Foundation provides post-placement counseling. This gives you emotional support after your baby’s adoption.

Reach Out to Us

An unplanned pregnancy can make you feel scared and powerless. But learning about the options available to you can make all the difference. Choosing adoption gives you the power to bring love into the world and find a nurturing home for your baby. And if it’s what you decide you want to do, St. Elizabeth Foundation is dedicated to supporting you through it.

The choice is yours, and you should have all the information you need to make the best decision for you. If you’re looking for an adoption agency near you, call us at 225-769-8888 or visit our contact page to get in touch with a St. Elizabeth counselor. Your conversation will be confidential and judgment-free.

Unplanned Pregnancy – What to do Next?

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A hundred thoughts and emotions can threaten to overwhelm a woman when she finds out she’s pregnant. Multiply that by a thousand if the pregnancy is unplanned. When you’re not expecting to have a child yet, what should be a beautiful, joyous thing suddenly becomes terrifying. There are so many worries flying through your head that you can’t keep up. How can I raise a child? Will I have to do it on my own? Does this put my future on hold? Can I afford it? What will my friends and family think? What do I do?

First off, take a deep breath. 

It’s going to be okay. We know this is an overwhelming experience, so even though it might sound silly and obvious, it’s important to remember to breathe. Calming, deep breaths can center your mind and help you focus on one thing at a time. Because you do have options, and looking at each option with a clear head can help you understand which is the best path for your future, and the future of your unborn child. 

Second, look at your options. 

When dealing with an unplanned pregnancy, there’s nothing more important than fully understanding the positives and negatives of each of the following options. You can do so by asking yourself questions and then seeking the advice of a professional. 

  1. Parenting 
    • Am I ready to raise a child? 
    • Do I have the finances to support the child? 
    • Will my child have a father figure in his or her life?
    • Who can help me raise the child?
  2. Abortion
    • What are the health risks of an abortion? 
    • What will my friends and family think of this decision? 
    • Is it really the best solution? 
    • How much does it cost?
    • Will I regret this decision?
  3. Adoption
    • What’s the process of adoption? 
    • Will I get to see my child after they are adopted? Can I be involved in their life? 
    • Does it cost anything? 
    • What will my child think of me?
    • Do I want another family to raise my child? 

Some of these questions only you can answer. However, many of them can and should be answered by a healthcare or adoption professional. 

Third, talk to doctors, counselors, and professionals.

Go to your doctor, a clinic, a therapist–anyone who either has the knowledge to help you through this experience. They can properly walk you through each question and decision you have to make by providing you with information about each option. 

If you’re looking at adoption as a possible path, there are many adoption agencies out there, like St. Elizabeth Foundation, that will guide you through the process of adoption with a warm and welcoming hand. Our priority is to your unborn child, and to you. To find the best home they could possibly ask for, with the best chance for a bright future. Learn more about what to expect here. 

Finally, come to terms with your decision. 

It can be a struggle to come to terms with your decision. No matter what, you might always wish that things would’ve been different. But time heals many wounds, and knowing that you’ve done what’s best for you and your child is the comfort you need. 

Are You Wondering How to Adopt a Baby in Louisiana?

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Parents come in all shapes and sizes. We know that well in St. Elizabeth Foundation. But not everybody qualifies to be an adoptive parent. Discover more and find out how to adopt a baby in Louisiana from the professionals at St Elizabeth. 

Requirements to Adopt

As with many things in life, there are certain requirements you have to fulfill to take part in them. The same thing goes for adoption. In the state of Louisiana, potential adoptive parents must meet the following requirements:

  • Potential adoptive parents must have enough bedroom space for an incoming child. Of course, there are some loopholes to this. For example, a child may share a bedroom with another child of the same sex. However, they cannot share with anyone over the age of 18.
  • Potential parents must also have enough income to meet their family’s needs. Some people may see this as discriminatory, but trust us when we say that it isn’t. It is to ensure that the family can afford to raise a new child and that they have the best quality of life possible.
  • In the state of Louisiana, adoptive parents can be single, married, divorced, or widowed. However, at St. Elizabeth, we choose couples who have been married for at least five years. Like with everything else, we do this because we want children to have their best shot at life. 
  • Did you know that foster/adoptive parents cannot have more than five children under the age of 18? And this includes foster children and their own children. While it may seem odd at first, it ensures the children have the best quality of life.
  • Has someone residing in your home been convicted of certain criminal offenses? If so, you may not be able to adopt.
  • Adoptive parents must also be healthy and mentally stable. Every adult in the home has to provide a medical statement completed by a physician. This statement should indicate they are free of communicable diseases such as tuberculosis. If you or someone else in the home does have a communicable disease, don’t worry—it’s not the end. All you need is a note from a physician saying that you are compliant with your treatment.

If you have any questions about the requirements to become an adoptive parent in Louisiana, don’t be afraid to get in contact with us. We’re more than happy to help you, especially if you’re looking for a new bundle of joy in your life.

St. Elizabeth Process

Want to see if you qualify for St. Elizabeth? All you have to do is go through our simple process. After filling out a formal application, we review it and begin a home study. If you pass our home study, we move you to our education program. This program helps you learn more about adoption and how to become the best adoptive parent you can be. After all, adoption isn’t only about your interests—it’s also about the child. After, we go through any legal necessities and help the birth mother choose the right family for her. At this stage, she is shown a family profile book and can choose the perfect family. 

Simple, right? Of course, every adoption situation is different, so your experience may have differences from others. But that’s why we’re here every step of the way.

Getting In Contact With St. Elizabeth

There are several ways to go about adoption in the state of Louisiana. If you choose us, we’re more than happy to help you with every step in your adoption journey. So, why wait? Begin the process today, and get in touch with one of our representatives.

Find Out More About The Adoption Process

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We understand that the adoption process can seem overwhelming. There are so many steps, a lot of paperwork, and of course, many emotions. So if you’re considering making an adoption plan, you need someone who knows all about it to help guide you through it. Learn more about the adoption process in Baton Rouge with St. Elizabeth Foundation. 

As A Birth Mother, You’re The One In Control 

Do you have an unplanned pregnancy? Then you need to know that you have options. Adoption is one of those options. It’s a loving, unselfish, and empowering choice. While making your decision, St. Elizabeth’s caring staff is here to listen. And, if you do choose to make an adoption plan, we can help you through your pregnancy, birth, and afterwards. And remember, all of our services are completely free.

Choosing Adoption 

Though we’re here to help you through the adoption process, every choice is still yours to make. As the birth mother, you’re the one in control of every decision—no matter how big or small. We’ll help you with educational, financial, and emotional support at every step. We’re here to hold your hand as you make the best choice for you and your baby’s future. YOU are the one in charge. 

You choose the family that will parent your baby. 

St. Elizabeth Foundation screens all prospective adopting parents. We make sure every single couple can provide your baby with a safe and loving home. All of our couples have been married for at least five years. That means your baby will have two parents—a caring mother AND a present father. All of these parents fill out a formal application for our staff to review. Then, they go through a lengthy home study process and background checks. Additionally, we make sure they’re emotionally stable and have a strong relationship. We also discuss their parenting philosophy. 

You choose the type of adoption.

Once you select a family, the next step in the adoption process is choosing the type of adoption. St. Elizabeth works with attorneys. They help determine and finalize your rights and the birth parents’ rights. There are three types of adoptions in Louisiana: open, semi-open, and closed. The state of Louisiana is a closed adoption state. They only recognize the adoption as “closed”. The agency is the one that makes it semi-open or open.

  • Open adoptions mean birth parents and adoptive families communicate directly with each other. These can be scheduled meetings, phone calls, or letters. Open adoptions are the most common and regarded as being the most beneficial. 
  • Semi-open adoptions mean an adoption agency facilitates communication. Through the agency, birth parents and adoptive families share information and arrange meetings. 
  • Closed adoptions mean the adoptive family and the birth parents do not communicate at all. Their identities are sealed in court records. 

While St. Elizabeth Foundation specializes in open adoptions, we can help you, whatever your preference. Because remember, YOU are the one in charge.  

Do You Have Questions About The Adoption Process in Baton Rouge?

Whatever your decision, we want you to feel good about it. Part of feeling good about your decision is getting all of your questions answered. Get in touch with us by calling 225-769-8888 or contacting us online. We’re here for you.