Are you currently pregnant?

Our local social workers are able to speak with you on the phone, via text, or in person to provide you with confidential, nonjudgmental counseling and guidance on your options. We can also provide you with financial assistance and free services that give you the time and support you need to make the best decision for you and your baby without pressure.

You are not alone. We can help.

We are here for you.

Hear directly from one of our counselors about how Spence-Chapin can support you, whatever your situation may be.

If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy or have recently given birth in Arizona, New York, or New Jersey 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.

What does it mean to make an adoption plan?

Adoption is not “giving up” or “giving away” your baby. 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. At Spence-Chapin, our adoption process is birth-parent led, which means that you steer the ship to make the adoption plan that feels right for you and your baby.

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.

Free Legal Services

For those who choose to make an adoption plan, we’ll hire an adoption attorney on your behalf to represent you free of charge. If you choose to have an open adoption, your attorney will explain your options and help you craft an open adoption agreement that works for you.

Counseling and Support

Our licensed counselors are available around the clock to listen, answer your questions, and help you think through your options. All conversations are completely confidential and free of charge.

Temporary Newborn Care

Parenting a newborn can be overwhelming while you are trying to make a plan for the future. You may need additional time and breathing space to think about your and your child’s future.

Special Needs Adoption

If you’ve received an unanticipated diagnosis or experienced a complication during pregnancy or after birth, you may be unsure about parenting and unaware of all your options. Our social workers can meet with you confidentially to talk with you about your baby’s needs and help you understand your options.

Birth Parent Rights

You have rights throughout this process, and we will make sure you understand them. Our adoption process is birth parent-led, meaning you choose the type of plan, you choose the family, and you are provided with independent legal representation at no cost.

Financial Assistance

If you are pregnant and worried about money, you are not alone. Financial concerns are one of the most common reasons people consider adoption, and we want you to know that help is available regardless of what you decide to do. Spence-Chapin is committed to providing financial support for pregnancy-related expenses. Depending on your situation and state of residence, assistance may include:

Rent and utility payments
Groceries and food assistance
Transportation to medical appointments
Maternity clothing
Other pregnancy-related needs

All financial assistance is completely free and comes with no conditions attached. You do not need to have made any decisions about your pregnancy to receive support. Reach out to one of our counselors to find out what is available to you.

Hospital Advocacy and Planning

No matter what you decide about your pregnancy, having a plan for your hospital stay can make a significant difference. Your Spence-Chapin social worker will work with you to create a hospital plan that reflects your wishes, so that your choices are respected from the moment you arrive.

Our counselors will coordinate directly with the hospital social worker on your behalf to make sure your rights are protected and your voice is heard throughout your stay. We can be present with you at the hospital, advocate for your preferences with medical staff, and support you through every decision you face before, during, and after delivery.

We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Whether you have a detailed plan in place or are still figuring things out, we will meet you wherever you are.

Already a parent and considering adoption?

You do not have to be pregnant to reach out to us. If you are a parent considering adoption for a child you are already raising, Spence-Chapin can help you understand your options and support you through every step of the process.

Meet our Waiting Families

Every family in our program has been carefully screened and is ready to welcome a child with open arms. When you are ready, their profiles are waiting for you.

Real Stories

Experience true stories directly from birth parents who open up about their experiences exploring options and choosing the path that was best for them and the child.

Why birth parents trust Spence-Chapin

Since 1908, Spence-Chapin has supported birth parents through one of the most significant decisions of their lives. For over a century, we have been guided by a simple belief: that every person who comes to us deserves honest information, compassionate support, and the freedom to make the choice that is right for them.

Our process is birth parent-led from beginning to end. That means you are always in control. You choose whether to explore adoption or other options. You choose the family. You have your own independent attorney provided at no cost. And you can change your mind at any point before the adoption is finalized.

All of our services are completely free and confidential. We are licensed in New York, New Jersey, and Arizona, and our counselors are available around the clock, every day of the year. Whatever you are facing, you do not have to face it alone.

Birth Parent Led Process
You make every decision. We Support you.
Since 1908
Over a century of compassionate support.
Always Free
Every service, at no cost to you.
Licensed in NY, NJ and AZ
In-person and virtual options.
Available 24/7
Day or night, every day of the year.

Hear from our Community

"Spence-Chapin helped me understand the broad world of adoption. They helped me understand the process and made sure I was the one with agency and power in every turn.

There are many uncertainties in life, but choosing Spence-Chapin to help me with my adoption plan was not one of them. With all the knowledge, support, and care from Spence-Chapin, I was prepared to make life-changing choices knowing that they were with me every step of the way."

Linda L
Spence-Chapin Birth Parent

Frequently Asked Questions

We know you have questions. Here are answers to some of the things birth parents ask us most. If you do not see what you are looking for, please reach out.

How much does it cost to use Spence-Chapin’s services?

Our services to birth and 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.

I am 9 months pregnant (or I have already delivered). Is it too late to make an adoption plan for my baby?

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.

Can I choose and meet the adoptive family for my baby?

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.

What if I do not want to meet the adoptive family?

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.

What if I have used drugs or alcohol during my pregnancy?

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.

What if my baby has a medical issue or a developmental delay?

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.

Does the biological father have to be involved in the adoption planning?

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.

Can I visit with my baby while I am in the hospital?

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.

Do I have to make a final decision about adoption as soon as my baby is born?

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.

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

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

Must I place my baby in Interim Care?

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.

Can I have contact with my child as he or she grows?

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.

How do I begin?

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

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.

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.