Relocating
An unplanned pregnancy can be a scary and frustrating thing. You may not know what to do next or to whom to speak. You may be looking for answers, but you aren’t sure where to look. This is normal. Many expectant mothers go through this, and you’re not the only one; you’re not alone. This can be especially true while you are sorting through your many options. Some of your options may require you—or give you the opportunity—to relocate for better care. Through this section, you’ll find more information about reasons you’d relocate while exploring the adoption route and where you may relocate.
Maternity Homes: Over the years, maternity homes have become less common. These homes can be a safe-haven for you and your growing child. In the years past, women experiencing an unplanned pregnancy would stay in a maternity home until the adoption was complete and finalized. Only then would they return home to their families. Even though the numbers of maternity homes are fewer, they are still around. There are homes that are open to any expectant mother—whether she is planning for an adoption, abortion, or raising the child. This is a great resource to take advantage of. It may be what you need to help you progress through your life with the proper level of support and stability.
Homing in with Agency Families: Another option is to home-in with an agency family. You can find one of these families either through a crisis pregnancy center or through the adoption agency you’ve chosen to use. They will provide you with shelter, moral support, stability, and other needed care. This can be a great option for pregnant women who need a little more than what they’re getting from their current home and residence. Agency families can also help you along the educational road. If you want to continue your education, many host families can help you along the way—whether you decide to study on-campus or at-home. They can also help find employment and teach you many life skills, like cooking, budgeting, and maintaining and organizing a household.
Whichever option you decide is best for you, your child, and your situation while exploring adoption, know that you have family members and friends who will support you and who love you. Remember that there are resources available to you—no matter which option you choose. Two of those options are relocating to a maternity home or homing-in with an agency family. Take the time you need to make an informed decision. An informed decision is the best decision you could ever make.
