What Is the Private Adoption Process in Louisiana?

Written by

November is National Adoption Month! This is the perfect time to learn more about the adoption process or finalize your own adoption plan, whether you are a birth mother giving the gift of adoption or a family ready to embrace parenthood through private adoption. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, it is our mission to provide unwavering support to birth mothers while guiding prospective adoptive parents through the private adoption process in Louisiana. Explore what private adoption in Louisiana entails and how our agency plays a pivotal role in this remarkable journey.

The Private Adoption Process in Louisiana

Private adoption, often referred to as domestic adoption, is carried out through a private adoption agency. Choosing a private adoption is a profound and compassionate way for birth mothers to provide loving families for their babies when they feel they are unable to do so themselves. 

According to research from the ​​National Council For Adoption, there were 39,601 U.S. adoptions in 2020. In Louisiana, private adoption is a process filled with care, guidance, and support from experienced professionals like the team at St. Elizabeth Foundation. Learn more about the steps birth mothers and adopting couples can take to begin their adoption journey. 

1. Choose Adoption

The decision to pursue private adoption is a deeply personal one. Birth mothers and adoptive families alike should take the time to consider their options and determine if this path aligns with their desires and circumstances. It’s a step toward a brighter future for both birth mothers and prospective parents. 

2. Partner With an Adoption Agency

Choosing the right adoption agency is crucial, and this is where St. Elizabeth Foundation comes into play. Our team provides comprehensive information throughout the private adoption process in Louisiana. Whether you’re a birth mother in need of support or a couple eager to welcome a child into your home, we are here to guide you through the process.

St. Elizabeth Foundation offers a wide range of services, including:

  • Birth mother counseling and support
  • Home study services
  • Assistance with legal matters
  • Matching services to connect birth mothers with loving families

By partnering with an adoption agency like St. Elizabeth Foundation, you can rest assured that you are in the hands of professionals who genuinely care about your well-being and the well-being of the child at the center of it all.

3. Establish Your Match

One of the most remarkable aspects of private adoption in Louisiana is the way birth mothers play an active role in selecting the family they believe will provide the best future for their child. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we facilitate this process, ensuring that birth mothers have the information and support they need to make this challenging decision.

When a birth mother chooses an adoptive family, it’s a beautiful moment of connection and trust. The match between the birth mother and the adoptive family is a pivotal step in the private adoption process, where the foundation’s expertise is invaluable.

4. Build the Birth Plan

With the guidance of St. Elizabeth Foundation, birth mothers have the opportunity to create a birth plan. This plan outlines their preferences for the birthing experience, including whether they want adoptive parents present at the birth, the level of contact they desire after the adoption, and more. Birth plans are personalized to each birth mother’s unique situation.

5. Finalize the Adoption

The final step in the private adoption process involves legal procedures to officially transfer custody of the child to the adoptive parents. St. Elizabeth Foundation ensures that all necessary legal documents are prepared and processed to finalize the adoption.

Take the First Step With St. Elizabeth Foundation

If you are considering private adoption in Louisiana during National Adoption Month or beyond, St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to offer unwavering support, guidance, and care. To learn more about the private adoption process, reach out to St. Elizabeth Foundation today. 

Whether you are a birth mother interested in placement or an adoptive couple ready to file your application, you can send a message online or call 225-769-8888 to take the first step. Your journey to parenthood or your journey as a birth mother begins here, with St. Elizabeth Foundation by your side.

What Are My Adoption Options in Louisiana?

Written by

Facing an unplanned or unexpected pregnancy can be an overwhelming and emotional experience. Birth mothers may find themselves at a crossroads, contemplating various options for the future. While parenting their baby or entering foster care are possibilities, adoption is a loving and selfless choice. Birth mothers who consider adoption can provide their children with a stable and loving home and access to opportunities for them to thrive. Learn more about three adoption options available to birth mothers in Louisiana.

Understanding Adoption Options in Louisiana

Birth mothers in Louisiana can choose from three forms of adoption through St. Elizabeth Foundation: open, semi-open, and closed. Each option offers a different level of contact and involvement between the birth mother and the adoptive family, allowing birth mothers to make a choice that aligns with their comfort and preferences.

Open Adoption

Open adoption allows birth mothers and adoptive families to have ongoing contact and communication. In open adoptions, birth mothers can maintain relationships with their child and the adoptive parents. This arrangement can include visits, phone calls, and updates on the child’s life.

Benefits of Open Adoption

  • Maintaining Connection: Birth mothers can continue to be a part of their child’s life, offering love and support as they grow.
  • Peace of Mind: Birth mothers can see firsthand that their child is safe, loved, and thriving in their adoptive family.
  • Reduced Grief: Open adoption can help birth mothers find closure and lessen the grief associated with separation.

Semi-Open Adoption

Semi-open adoption strikes a balance between open and closed adoption options in Louisiana. Birth mothers and adoptive families may exchange information through an intermediary from St. Elizabeth Foundation. While direct contact may be limited, updates and letters can still be exchanged.

Benefits of Semi-Open Adoption

  • Privacy: Birth mothers can maintain some level of privacy while still receiving updates about their child’s well-being.
  • Control: Birth mothers can decide how much contact they are comfortable with, allowing them to have a say in their adoption plan.
  • Peace of Mind: Birth mothers can know that their child is thriving without the pressure of constant contact.

Closed Adoption

Closed adoption involves no direct contact or communication between birth mothers and adoptive families. In closed adoptions, the identities of both parties are kept confidential.

Benefits of Closed Adoption

  • Privacy: Birth mothers can maintain complete privacy and anonymity.
  • Emotional Distance: Some birth mothers may find it emotionally easier to move forward without direct contact.
  • Freedom to Pursue Future Goals: Birth mothers can move forward with education, career opportunities, and personal growth while knowing their child is in a loving and stable environment.

St. Elizabeth Foundation: Supporting Birth Mothers in Louisiana

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we understand that deciding to place your baby for adoption is a deeply personal and challenging choice. We are here to support and empower birth mothers on their adoption journey, providing the resources and guidance needed to make the best decision for both themselves and their babies.

Our dedicated team offers a range of services to assist birth mothers, including:

  • Counseling: We provide emotional support and counseling services to help birth mothers navigate the complexities of adoption.
  • Financial Assistance: St. Elizabeth Foundation offers financial support to alleviate the burden of medical and living expenses during pregnancy.
  • Education: We ensure birth mothers are well-informed about the adoption process and their rights, helping them make informed choices.

We believe every birth mother deserves compassion, respect, and the opportunity to create a loving future for their child through adoption. We are committed to helping birth mothers find adoption options that align with their needs and desires.

Discover Your Adoption Options in Louisiana at St. Elizabeth Foundation

If you are a birth mother facing an unplanned pregnancy and are interested in exploring your adoption options in Louisiana, reach out to the team at St. Elizabeth Foundation. Message us or call 225-769-8888 to learn more about adoption or begin the adoption process. Our team is here to support you on your journey, providing the guidance and assistance you need to make the best choice for you and your baby.

How Do I Tell My Loved Ones About My Adoption Plan?

Written by

If you find yourself with an unplanned pregnancy, choosing adoption near Lafayette might be the right path for you. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we understand the challenges you’re going through. Our team is here to support and care for you as you navigate your adoption journey. One of the most daunting tasks ahead may be telling your loved ones about your adoption plan. It’s essential to remember that communication is key during this journey. Let us offer guidance and resources to help you navigate this delicate conversation. Consider this advice when sharing the news of your pregnancy and adoption plan with your loved ones.

Trust in the Power of Open Communication

Telling your loved ones about your unplanned pregnancy and adoption decision is a vulnerable process. However, open communication and sharing your story are vital to building a solid support system throughout this journey. 

If it is easier for you, choose a comfortable and private setting to speak with your family and close friends. This environment will help everyone to express their feelings freely and ensure they understand your reasons for choosing adoption near Lafayette. Be honest about your feelings and be prepared for a range of reactions. Some may be surprised or even initially resistant. But, reassure them that you are making the best choice for your and your baby’s futures.

Before starting the conversation, take some time to gather your thoughts and emotions. Remember that you have made this decision thoughtfully and with the best intentions for both yourself and your baby. Choosing adoption is an act of selfless love, as you are placing your child’s needs and well-being at the forefront of your decision-making process. Explain how much you love your child and that this decision is about giving them the best possible life. In addition, letting your loved ones know that you have carefully and thoroughly thought through your options can help them to better understand your reasoning for choosing adoption.

Be Patient and Understanding

Your loved ones may need time to process the news of your pregnancy and adoption plan. Some may not fully understand or support your decision immediately. But, that doesn’t mean they won’t come around eventually. Be patient as they process the information. It is important to give them space to absorb the information and ask any questions they may have.

While it may be challenging to hear conflicting opinions, remember that you are the one who knows what is best for your child and yourself. Their initial reactions do not define the validity of your decision. Stay true to your beliefs, trust your instincts, and seek the support of a counselor if needed.

Lean On Counseling Resources

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we are committed to providing free counseling resources to help you process your emotions and thoughts throughout your pregnancy and adoption journey. Our professional counselors are available to support you, and they can also help you prepare for the conversation with your loved ones. Don’t hesitate to reach out and seek guidance whenever you need it.

Begin Planning Your Adoption Near Lafayette With St. Elizabeth Foundation

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we are devoted to providing compassionate and comprehensive support to birth mothers in Louisiana facing unplanned pregnancies. Remember that you are not alone on this journey. Our free counseling resources are available to help you navigate the emotional challenges and uncertainties that may arise during this time.

If you are considering adoption near Lafayette, we encourage you to call us at 225-769-8888 or send us a message to begin building your adoption plan. Our team is here to listen, guide, and support you, ensuring your adoption journey is as smooth and empowering as possible. You are making a brave and loving choice, and we are here to help you make the best decision for yourself and your precious baby.

How a Local Adoption Agency Puts Monroe Birth Mothers First

Written by

When faced with an unplanned pregnancy, the path ahead may seem uncertain. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we understand the challenges and emotions that birth mothers can experience. Our local Louisiana adoption agency helps birth mothers in Monroe and beyond determine the right plan for their adoption. We are committed to providing support and care on your journey and making sure your voice is heard. Discover how St. Elizabeth Foundation prioritizes the needs of birth mothers and empowers them to make decisions they are comfortable with.

We Provide a Judgement-Free Space to Plan Your Adoption

After recognizing the stigma birth mothers face and the negative perception around adoption in Louisiana communities, our founders Hays and Gay Town embarked on a mission in 1988. They took the first steps to raise awareness and transform this outlook. Their vision was simple yet impactful—to create a safe and compassionate space where birth mothers could explore their options and find stability after adoption. And since then, St. Elizabeth Foundation has facilitated the adoption of hundreds of babies while providing the utmost care to birth mothers, honoring their journey with compassion and support.

The staff at St. Elizabeth Foundation recognizes the fear, stress, and conflicting emotions that can accompany an unplanned pregnancy. In addition to facilitating adoptions, our local adoption agency provides a nonjudgmental environment. This provides a place where birth mothers can freely express their feelings, concerns, and hopes for the future. Our team consists of experienced professionals who offer counseling services, ensuring that birth mothers have the emotional support they need throughout their adoption journey.

We Offer Free Resources for Birth Mothers

Financial constraints should never stand in the way of birth mothers receiving the support they deserve. That is why St. Elizabeth Foundation offers a comprehensive range of resources in hopes of alleviating the financial burden of unplanned pregnancies. 

Through our local adoption agency, we cover a variety of expenses. This includes prenatal care, delivery, postnatal care, and additional out-of-pocket costs that aren’t covered by Medicaid or private insurance. Our goal is to empower birth mothers to make the best decisions for themselves and their babies without the added stress of financial instability.

We Support Birth Mothers in Every Decision

Our local adoption agency near Monroe firmly believes that birth mothers should have control over every decision regarding their adoption plan. We respect and value their independence, and our role is to support and guide them throughout the process. Birth mothers can choose the adoptive family for their child based on their own preferences and desires. We work closely with birth mothers to ensure they are comfortable with their choices while providing comprehensive information about potential adoptive families.

In addition, St. Elizabeth Foundation supports birth mothers in deciding the level of openness they desire in their adoption plan. We recognize that each birth mother’s needs and circumstances are unique. Through counseling and planning, we help mothers decide on an adoption style they prefer, whether closed, semi-open, or open. We respect their choices and work diligently to facilitate the type of adoption relationship they are most comfortable with. 

Kristin Aucoin, a licensed clinical social worker at our local adoption agency, says that by putting birth mothers first, they can have confidence that they are making the right choices for their babies:

“We run our program around our birth mothers, and we want them to be as comfortable as possible and tell us what they want and how they want things to go. It’s all about them—and we want them to be the most comfortable and feel comfortable about their decision.”

Work With a Local Adoption Agency Near Monroe That Puts Your Needs First

St. Elizabeth Foundation is more than just a local adoption agency near Monroe, LA. We are a dedicated team of professionals who are passionate about supporting and caring for birth mothers throughout their adoption journeys. By offering free resources, counseling services, and support for birth mothers to make their own choices, we nurture an environment that puts them first. 

If you are a birth mother in Louisiana seeking guidance and support for making an adoption plan, St. Elizabeth Foundation is here for you. Our local adoption agency is dedicated to providing the care, resources, and empowerment you need during this challenging time. We understand that placing your baby for adoption is a deeply personal decision, and we are committed to ensuring that you are in control every step of the way. Send us a message or call 225-769-8888 to speak with one of our caring professionals and take the first step towards a brighter future for you and your baby.

Explore Infant Adoption Options Near New Orleans

Written by

When faced with an unplanned pregnancy, making decisions about the future can be challenging. If you are interested in placing your baby for adoption, make sure you understand all the options available to you! St. Elizabeth Foundation offers guidance to birth mothers throughout Louisiana. From helping you choose your adoption type to connecting you with adopting families, our agency helps you with every step of the adoption process. Learn more about adoption options available near New Orleans, how your decision can impact your baby’s future, and ways our agency can help.

What Are Your Adoption Options Near New Orleans?

When considering adoption, birth mothers have several options available to them. Through St. Elizabeth Foundation, you can place your baby for open, closed, or semi-open adoption. Each provides a different level of contact and communication between the birth mother, adoptive family, and child. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, our caring staff helps educate you about these options so that you can make the best choice for you and your baby.

Open Adoption

Open adoption allows for ongoing contact between the birth mother, adoptive family, and child. This correspondence can include organizing visits, sending letters, and having regular phone calls. Open adoption lets you maintain a relationship with your baby while still allowing them to grow up in a stable household. The level of openness can be customized based on your comfort level and the agreement reached with the adoptive family.

Closed Adoption

In a closed adoption, no identifying information is exchanged between the birth mother and adoptive family. A representative from St. Elizabeth Foundation will help mediate between you and the adoptive family throughout the adoption process. This ensures your anonymity is protected and that there is no contact between you and the adoptive family after the adoption is finalized. 

Semi-Open Adoption

Semi-open adoption provides a middle ground between open and closed adoption. In a semi-open adoption, you can maintain limited contact and communication with your baby and the adoptive family. This type of adoption allows you to receive updates on your baby’s growth and development while still maintaining a level of privacy.

Why Adoption is a Loving Option for Your Baby

Choosing adoption for your baby provides numerous advantages for their development, such as ensuring they grow up in a stable and nurturing household. St. Elizabeth Foundation connects birth mothers with capable and loving families who have completed extensive training and evaluations. This rigorous preparation ensures the family can offer a safe and secure home for a new baby. Benefits of adoption for babies include:

  • Stability. Adoption allows a child to grow up in a stable, two-parent environment, providing a solid foundation for emotional, social, and educational development.
  • Love and Support. Adoptive families are prepared to provide unconditional love, care, and support to their adopted child. These families are committed to creating nurturing spaces where your baby can thrive.
  • Opportunities. Adoption opens up opportunities for your baby, including access to education, healthcare, and a supportive network of family and friends. Adoptive families help provide your baby with the best possible future.

If you are searching for adoption options near New Orleans that help unlock these benefits for your baby, St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to help. We can help you find adopting families, counseling services, and financial resources for your adoption.

Discover Your Options at St. Elizabeth Foundation

St. Elizabeth Foundation understands the complexities and emotions involved in adoption, and we are here to help. Our knowledgeable counselors and staff are ready to listen, provide information, and help you develop an adoption plan that reflects your wishes and ensures the best possible future for your child. Start by messaging us or calling 225-769-8888 to learn more about your adoption options near New Orleans. Remember, choosing adoption is a selfless and loving decision—and St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to guide you every step of the way!

Helping Families Grow: How to Find Parents Looking to Adopt in Louisiana

Written by

Bringing a child into the world is a significant decision. However,  circumstances may lead expectant mothers to consider adoption as an option. In Louisiana, St. Elizabeth Foundation is a compassionate adoption agency that supports birth mothers throughout their adoption journey. With a specialization in infant adoption, we offer a safe environment where expectant mothers can find parents looking to adopt and make the best choice for their babies. Explore how St. Elizabeth Foundation connects birth mothers with adopting families and how we support you as you develop your personalized adoption plan.

Start by Connecting with Adoptive Families

St. Elizabeth Foundation understands the importance of finding a loving and supportive family for your baby. When you are ready to find parents looking to adopt, we share comprehensive profiles of prospective adopting couples. All adoptive families have gone through an extensive vetting process, including background checks and home studies. This preparation ensures that all families listed can provide a safe, loving home for your baby. You can review family bios and learn more about the potential parents’ lives. By providing this access, our agency empowers expectant mothers to make the right choice for their baby’s future.

We Create a Safe Environment Tailored to Your Chosen Level of Openness

Privacy and security are especially important for expectant mothers considering adoption. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we provide a safe and anonymous environment where birth mothers can explore their options without revealing their identities unless they feel comfortable doing so. This potential anonymity offers a sense of security, enabling birth mothers to review potential adopting families without any pressure or obligation. Our agency facilitates open, semi-open, and closed adoptions to meet your level of comfort. Whether you want to remain fully anonymous or wish to maintain some level of communication with your baby, we can help you develop an adoption plan that meets your needs.

Select the Perfect Family for Your Baby

When evaluating potential adopting families, birth mothers have several factors to consider. St. Elizabeth Foundation encourages birth mothers to think about their own values, family traditions, and hopes for their baby’s future. By reading family bios, you can learn about the potential parents’ backgrounds, lifestyles, and goals for raising a child. Consider the couple’s faith, lifestyle, hobbies, and household. Will your baby have siblings or be raised around animals? Will the adoptive parents’ extended family play a significant role in your baby’s upbringing? St. Elizabeth Foundation will help you explore the importance of factors by offering counseling and support. This information can help you identify families that align with your values. And, this also allows you to create a solid foundation for your baby’s future in a nurturing and inclusive environment.

Seek Support and Assistance

In addition to helping you find parents looking to adopt, St. Elizabeth Foundation also helps develop your adoption plan. Making an adoption plan requires support and guidance. This process includes choosing your adoptive family, the hospital for your birth, and the openness of your adoption. St. Elizabeth Foundation is committed to providing expectant mothers with necessary assistance throughout the process, including counseling and financial resources. Our caring and experienced staff are available to address any questions or concerns while giving you power over each decision.

Find Parents Looking to Adopt at St. Elizabeth Foundation

St. Elizabeth Foundation is dedicated to helping birth mothers with unplanned pregnancies make the best adoption plans for their specific situations. By providing a safe and compassionate setting to discuss your pregnancy, we give you the space and the freedom to make the best choices for your needs. If you are considering placing your baby for adoption, reach out to us for the support you need to make an informed decision about your baby’s future. Contact our agency at 225-769-8888 or message us to find parents looking to adopt and take the first step towards placing your baby into a loving home.

How Do Finances Affect My Unplanned Pregnancy Options in Louisiana?

Written by

If you are considering adoption as one of your unplanned pregnancy options in Louisiana, knowing your potential expenses is essential to making an informed decision about your future. While choosing adoption can feel overwhelming and daunting, it doesn’t have to be. Understanding how finances work throughout the process can provide clarity and security as you prepare for your adoption journey. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we know that finances can be a concern for birth mothers. This is why we are here to provide financial assistance following Louisiana laws. Learn how we provide financial and emotional support so you can go into the experience feeling safe, secure, and informed.

What Expenses Could You Face?

Another expense to consider is birth planning. As a birth mother, you may wonder how you will cover the cost of prenatal care, delivery, and postnatal care. Our agency covers these expenses, ensuring that birth mothers receive the medical care they need throughout their pregnancy and after delivery. We start by working with you to determine the birth plan that is right for you. Then, we help you access the best possible medical care so you can focus on your wellbeing and the health of your baby. We can also offer financial assistance to cover out-of-pocket expenses that aren’t covered by Medicaid or your private insurance.

Additional Financial Assistance

In addition to the care we offer at St. Elizabeth Foundation, several Louisiana funding programs may assist you. For example, the Federal Title V Maternal and Child Health Block Grant funds programs that can assist with primary and preventative care. Or, the Title X family planning program helps pregnant mothers access free or discounted medical care. The program helps connect participants to inclusive, high-quality, and affordable services centered around reproductive health.

How St. Elizabeth Foundation Supports Birth Mothers

As an adoption agency specializing in infant adoptions, we know that every birth mother’s situation is unique. We take pride in offering individualized support, including financial support for living, medical, legal, and counseling costs. Our goal is to remove the financial burden from birth mothers so they can focus on their health and make the best decision for their babies.

It’s important to remember that financial support is just one part of what we offer at St. Elizabeth Foundation. We also provide free counseling resources to our birth mothers before and after the adoption. During our counseling sessions, we discuss all unplanned pregnancy options available to you in Louisiana. We explain the benefits of open, semi-open, and closed adoption and help you find the right solution. Then, we work with you to map out the birth and adoption plan that is most comfortable for you.

We understand that adoption can be an emotional process, and we are committed to offering support every step of the way. Our counseling services give birth mothers a safe space to discuss their options, work through the varying emotions of adoption, and process their experience after placement.

Discover Unplanned Pregnancy Options and Invaluable Support in Louisiana

If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy and considering adoption, please know that St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to help. We understand that finances can be a concern and are prepared to offer the emotional and financial support you need. Don’t hesitate to contact us by sending a message or calling 225-769-8888. Our adoption specialists are easygoing, honest, and available when you need us. We are committed to helping pregnant women in Louisiana with their adoption journeys. With our help, you can make the best choice for your baby and your future.

Options for Unplanned Pregnancy: Why Adoption Is a Positive Choice

Written by

Finding out about an unplanned pregnancy can be a challenging and overwhelming experience. It’s understandable if you feel anxious, scared, or unsure about what to do next. But know that you are not alone, and options for an unplanned pregnancy are available near Lafayette, LA. One of those options is adoption. 

Adoption can be a positive choice for you and your baby, allowing you to provide them with a loving and stable home. It can also give you the opportunity to pursue your goals if you aren’t ready for parenthood. Are you considering adoption as one of your options for an unplanned pregnancy? Here’s what you can find through St. Elizabeth Foundation.

You Have Control of Your Adoption

If you choose to place your baby for adoption, you have complete control over every decision throughout the process. For example, choosing an open or closed adoption determines the amount of contact you will keep with your baby and their adoptive family. These considerations also include choosing the placement family for your baby and deciding on your birth plan. Your choices ensure your baby receives the care and love you want for them.

While these choices are not easy, it’s important to take your time and explore all options before deciding. But whatever you choose, know there are people who care about you and want to support you along the way. Our professional counselors can help empower you as you make decisions for yourself and your baby.

What to Expect

The first step in discovering your adoption options for your unplanned pregnancy is to reach out to St. Elizabeth Foundation, located near Lafayette, LA. If you aren’t sure if adoption is the right choice for you, don’t worry. We make sure that you understand every option available to you so that you can make the most informed decision. Work with our caring team of counselors to choose your best option. Then, we will begin discussing your adoption plan.

If you choose to move forward with your adoption, we will connect you with profiles of adopting families. These profiles allow you to learn about each potential placement family before meeting in person. Learn about the adopting couple, their family and traditions, and why they are passionate about adoption. After reviewing these profiles, you can choose the best match for your baby.

Next, it’s time to discuss your birth plan. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we can provide pregnancy assistance, including medical, legal, living, and financial support. We also help develop a labor and delivery plan that is most comfortable for you. After the birth of your baby, we finalize every detail of your placement. If you choose an open or semi-open adoption, our agency will help mediate communication between you and the adoptive family. And remember—even after your placement, our counselors are available for emotional support.

Discover Positive Options for Unplanned Pregnancy Near Lafayette, LA

If you are considering adoption as one of your options for an unplanned pregnancy, St. Elizabeth Foundation can help. Our adoption agency, located near Lafayette, LA, specializes in newborn adoptions. We work with mothers throughout Louisiana to help them find placements for their babies through open, closed, or semi-open adoptions. Give us a call at 225-769-8888 or send us a message. Whether you are ready to begin the adoption process or are still researching options, our team is here to help!

Choosing an Adoptive Family: 4 Factors for Birth Mothers to Consider

Written by

Choosing to place your baby for adoption is a beautiful and selfless act of love. When you choose adoption in Monroe through St. Elizabeth Foundation, remember that you are in control of the adoption process. Our agency is here to support you every step of the way and provide you with information, resources, and emotional support as you navigate each decision. 

From choosing the adoptive family to deciding your birth plan, we empower you to make the right decisions for you and your baby. But when choosing who to trust with raising your baby, how can you feel confident in your decision? These four factors may help to simplify the process of finding the family that is the best fit for your child. 

1. Do You Share Values With the Adoptive Family?

Finding an adoptive family that shares your social or religious values may help you feel more comfortable trusting their ability to raise your child. Having common ground can also create a connection with the adoptive family. This bond can be beneficial for maintaining ongoing communication and openness in the adoption process. And, this can help give you some direction when choosing the right family for your placement. 

2. What Is the Adoptive Family’s Lifestyle?

An adoptive family’s values, lifestyle, and interests can be attractive factors when choosing a placement family. For example, does the family have other children or pets? Do they travel often or have regular hobbies or special traditions they enjoy? These special interests help you get to know the adoptive family deeper and learn what makes them unique. Then, envision your baby growing up in this environment. You can find comfort in knowing your baby will grow up in a supportive environment where they can develop their own interests as they grow up.

3. What Is Their Relationship With Their Extended Family?

Beyond the adoptive family’s values and lifestyle, consider how much of a role their extended family will play in your baby’s life. Extended family can provide even more emotional support to your baby as they grow up. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins can help your baby feel more secure and connected with their adoptive parents. These family members are also available to help during challenging times. And, they can impart their own traditions and values to enrich your baby’s life for years to come.

4. Why Are They Choosing Adoption?

Knowing the adoptive couple’s reason for adopting establishes trust and transparency. Their story can help establish trust and respect in the relationship, which can be essential for maintaining ongoing communication and openness in the adoption. Their reasoning can also offer insight into how they plan to parent your baby. For example, if their determining factors for adopting is to provide a stable home for a child who needs one, you may feel more reassured that your baby will be loved and cared for in their adoptive home.

How St. Elizabeth Foundation Helps Facilitate Healthy Adoption in Monroe

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we build bridges between birth mothers and adopting families. Birth mothers can browse profiles of adoption-ready families to choose the couple that they deem best for their baby. And before we make these profiles available, we ensure that each adoptive family meets our high standards for approval. 

To begin, the adoptive family goes through a thorough preparation process. The process includes completing a home study to ensure they can provide a safe and welcoming living environment. They must also complete an assessment of their emotional and relational health. Next, parents share their reasons for choosing adoption and go through an educational program to help them learn more about the process. Finally, once approved, each family builds an adoption profile to share their story with birth mothers.

If you want to find potential adoptive families for your baby, St. Elizabeth’s can help establish the connection. Get in touch with us to learn more about our adoption process and how we can help you get started in Monroe. Give us a call at 225-769-8888 or send us a message. We’re happy to answer any questions, offer counseling services, and help guide you throughout your adoption journey.

3 Adoption Options for an Unplanned Pregnancy in Louisiana

Written by

When faced with an unplanned pregnancy, knowing which path to take can be difficult. If you are considering placing your baby for adoption, St. Elizabeth Foundation can provide guidance and care as you come to your decision. Explore the three adoption options in Louisiana available through our agency—open, semi-open, and closed adoptions. We ensure you have the resources you need to find which type of adoption is the right choice for you.

Option 1: Stay In Close Contact With Your Baby

There are many reasons why a mother may choose to place her baby for adoption. These can include financial difficulties, personal challenges, or the desire to provide her baby with better opportunities. If she chooses adoption but wants to maintain a close relationship with her baby, she may choose an open adoption. 

A birth mother starts by reviewing profiles of potential adoptive families. Then, she can choose the one she feels will be the best fit for her child. This is a great way to get to know more about the family. Once her baby is placed, she can stay in contact and build a relationship with her baby and the adoptive family. This type of adoption can be especially beneficial for the baby, too. 

A birth mother may have regular in-person visits with her baby. She can also stay in touch through email or letter exchanges, and sharing updates and photos. While our staff can still help mediate communication, the birth mother and the adoptive family can initiate this directly.

Option 2: Limit Communication and Interactions 

Are there adoption options in Louisiana for mothers to stay in touch with their babies while still maintaining a sense of privacy? Yes! Our staff can mediate a semi-open adoption. 

A birth mother can stay connected by sending letters, photos, and emails or during in-person visits. She has the power to set personal boundaries while still having the opportunity to build a relationship with her baby.

During the placement process, a birth mother will view profiles of adoptive families. Then, she may communicate with them directly through emails or visits to learn more about them. Once she chooses the adoptive family, our staff will take care of the placement and mediate semi-open contact.

Option 3: Maintain Full Confidentiality

In some cases, a mother may not wish to stay in touch once the process is complete. One of the adoption options that we can facilitate in Louisiana is a closed adoption. 

Like open and semi-open adoptions, a birth mother has full control over the decisions for her adoption process. She will determine her birth plan and choose the family she deems fit to match with her baby. But unlike our other types of adoption, closed adoptions maintain full privacy for the birth mother.

We will not share her name, picture, or other identifying information with the adopting parents. She can rest assured that she will stay confidential throughout the entire process.

A member of the St. Elizabeth staff will be present for the birth of the baby and mediate the placement with the adoptive family. Once the baby is placed, there is no communication between the birth mother and her baby or the adoptive family.

Discover Your Adoption Options in Louisiana Through St. Elizabeth Foundation

You don’t have to search for potential adoption options in Louisiana alone! Birth mothers can receive support and guidance from the caring staff at St. Elizabeth Foundation. We provide counseling services, placement options, financial assistance, and a shoulder to lean on. Let us help you throughout your adoption journey. You can reach out to us at 225-769-8888. You can also send us a message to learn how we can help. 

When you choose adoption, we empower you with the knowledge of all options available to you in Louisiana. Get in touch with us today to find the best plan for you and your baby.