When grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, older siblings, or other “kin” step in to raise children who can no longer stay with a biological parent, it’s known as kinship care. Others in a close family-like relationship, such as godparents or close family friends, can also be considered for kinship care. As of September 2023, over 2.4 million children in the U.S. were raised in kinship/grandfamilies. Although that number is slightly lower than in previous years, it still means a large number of children are not raised by a biological parent. In 2022, grandparents without a parent present in th ..read more

Doctors divide pregnancies into trimesters. At 39 weeks, a pregnancy is considered full-term. If you are in your second trimester, you are between 13 and 27 weeks, limiting your options. You do have choices, though. Consider the following as some of your options. Placing Your Child for Adoption We understand it’s hard to consider carrying a child for 39 or 40 weeks and then placing them for adoption, but if circumstances don’t allow you to parent, adoption could be an excellent choice. Reputable adoption agencies provide thorough counseling before birth parents ever make an adoption plan. At A ..read more

High school is filled with friends, studies, sports, and proms, but it isn’t supposed to include pregnancy. Becoming pregnant in school does happen, and when it does, it’s critical to take care of your health and learn about your options. One of our caring team members would be happy to discuss your situation privately and help you sort it out. You don’t have to tackle an unplanned pregnancy alone. Have You Shared the News? When facing an unexpected pregnancy, you need the support of others. We encourage you to talk with your parents. You may be surprised by their love and support. Having stro ..read more

Did your partner just say those four little words you were hoping not to hear, “I think I’m pregnant.” That short phrase can strike fear in every guy’s heart if the situation isn’t right. Here are a couple of suggestions for your next steps. Has She Confirmed Her Pregnancy? We recommend you first verify she’s pregnant. Sometimes, a late period and a positive pregnancy test aren’t enough to determine pregnancy.  Experts estimate as many as 26% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage. That’s over one in four pregnancies! Because it would take her body time to return to pre-pregnancy hormone ..read more

Exams, papers, sporting events, and parties fill a college student’s life. How can you possibly add a pregnancy? We’re here to tell you that just because your pregnancy is unplanned, it doesn’t mean it’s impossible. You have rights and options. Let’s talk about it. Title IX Protects You There’s been a lot of talk about Title IX recently. Much of the conversation has concerned transgender women participating in women’s sports. Did you know Title IX also protects pregnant and parenting women? According to the law, schools that accept federal funds must comply with Title IX regulations. That incl ..read more

Adoption is not a one-time event. It’s a lifetime event. It affects you, your child, and their adoptive parents forever. When considering this choice, realize you will always be a mother. That will never change. How Can I Have a Relationship With My Child? Part of considering if adoption is the right choice for you and your child includes determining how much contact you wish to have with them. If you choose an open or semi-open adoption plan, you can have contact throughout your child’s life. Contact Agreement You and the adoptive parents agree on the type of communication you each want as yo ..read more

Your first step in placing your child for adoption is finding a reputable adoption coordinator you can trust. There are different types of adoptions depending on your situation. If you are an expectant woman or have recently given birth, make sure you receive the adoption services that put your needs and wants first. Choose a knowledgeable coordinator who knows your state’s adoption laws. Here is more information to help you decide what type of adoption is best for you. Independent Adoptions An independent adoption is also known as a direct placement adoption. This type of adoption can involve ..read more

An unplanned pregnancy is a shock not only for a woman but also for her partner. The news is mixed with unbelief, confusion, and fear. Are you wondering if you will be financially or legally responsible? The decision is in your partner’s hands. What Is My Responsibility? In Missouri, you are legally liable to financially care for a child you have fathered until the child reaches 18. If the child goes to college or a trade school, your financial responsibility can extend to 21. Your responsibility to financially support a disabled child lasts for the entire child’s life.  If you choose to ..read more

No one can legally force you to make one decision over another regarding your pregnancy. Only you can make the final choice. If abortion is not an option for you, learn about your other two choices–parenting or making an adoption plan. We’re available to answer any questions. Can I Be a Single Mother? Single mothers have many opportunities, but parenting alone can be very stressful. At A Gift of Hope Adoptions, we provide helpful resources for an expectant mom. There’s a list of free health clinics, information about Missoui’s Department of Social Services, and other community parenting referr ..read more

No one can legally force you to make one decision over another regarding your pregnancy. Only you can make the final choice. If abortion is not an option for you, learn about your other two choices–parenting or making an adoption plan. We’re available to answer any questions. Can I Be a Single Mother? Single mothers have many opportunities, but parenting alone can be very stressful. At A Gift of Hope Adoptions, we provide helpful resources for an expectant mom. There’s a list of free health clinics, information about Missoui’s Department of Social Services, and other community parenting referr ..read more