Let’s face it, life can be expensive, particularly when you’re facing pregnancy and childbirth. If you’ve discovered you are unexpectedly pregnant and are considering making an adoption plan for your baby, Minnesota law allows you to receive reasonable pregnancy-related expenses.

Let’s take a closer look. Although Metro Women’s Center is not a licensed child-placing agency, we can provide referrals to reputable agencies in our area. Contact us today.

What Does Minnesota Law Allow?

According to the Minnesota Legislature, the following expenses are allowed for a birth parent:

  • Reasonable counseling, medical, and legal fees, which are paid directly to the provider of those services.
  • Reasonable expenses for transportation, meals, and lodging incurred for the placement of the child or to receive counseling, medical, and legal assistance related to the pregnancy, birth, or placement.
  • Reasonable living expenses that are needed to maintain an adequate standard of living for the birth mother. These expenses do not include lost wages, gifts, educational or other similar expenses.
  • This assistance is available for up to six weeks after birth and is not contingent upon you following through with the adoption plan.

You Have Other Rights As a Birth Mother

In addition to the above, you have rights as a birth mother during the adoption process. Those rights include the following:

  • Receive free adoption services.
  • Support in choosing the right adoption plan: open, semi-open, or closed, based on the amount of communication you wish to have with the adoptive family and your child.
  • The ability to select the adoptive family who will raise your child if you desire.
  • A complete explanation of the entire adoption process, and to consult with your own legal counsel about your situation.
  • To consider adoption without manipulation or coercion.
  • You can change your mind at any time during the process until you sign the final legal papers.
  • The opportunity to live in safe and secure housing through Metro Women’s Center’s Amazing Grace Home.
  • Referrals to community resources.

What Is My First Step?

Adoption is not an easy choice. Make sure to choose an agency that provides thorough counseling and support during the entire process. At Metro Women’s Center, we recommend the following agencies:

There are other ways to find a family for your child, but we encourage you to be cautious when making an adoption plan for your child. Using a well-established agency helps protect you and your child from unscrupulous people who may not have your best interests in mind. If you would like to discuss your other options, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Schedule a free and confidential appointment to talk with us today. We’re here to listen and to help.