Birth Parents

The call from Barker came on a Monday as I was underground in the DC metro system. I got off the train and moved above ground to better hear the program director get the facts out. 

A baby was born the evening before. 

Her mother was a heavy drug user. 

The baby would go through detox. 

Would we be interested in meeting the birth mom the next day?

My heart did a flip-flop and I remembered to take a breath and stay grounded so I could let all my preliminary training kick in, get some initial questions answered, and figure out the next step forward. The info that flowed over the next ten minutes of the call gave me a window into both the life of a birth mother in crisis, and also a preview of a series of challenges and complexities that my husband and I might face over the next few days, weeks and years. 

Diversity Matters to Birth Parents: A True Glimpse from the eyes of a Pregnancy Counselor

There used to be a time during the adoption process when women would hand their baby over to a family with little to no communication after the process was complete.

Seen. Valued. Chosen.

The year 2020 has brought many different things to different people. For many of our families, it has brought the opportunity to welcome a child into their home. Barker truly believes that every child deserves a family, and we strive to be inclusive of all families who can create a safe and loving environment for a child through adoption, and who can commit to meeting the needs of that child.

This is the story of a birth father who later made a decision to become an adoptive father.  These are his reflections on how he experiences Father’s Day as a son, a birth father, and now an adoptive father.  Names of the individuals have been changed to protect the identities of all involved.

So much conversation about adoption centers around adoptive parents, birth parents, and the children who are adopted, but there is one group that often goes unnoticed – the families that tirelessly care for babies during the time when the biological mothers and fathers of the babies are trying to decide what is best for their child. This group of amazing individuals are Barker’s Cradle Care families, and we could not be more grateful for the selfless work that they do.

If you are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and are not sure what to do Barker Adoption's Pregnancy Counselors are here to help you navigate through your options and help you make the best plan for you and your baby. It takes tremendous courage to explore all of your pregnancy options, including, adoption for your baby and inner strength to figure out what is truly best for you and your child. You are not alone. We understand this is an important life changing decision, and our pregnancy counselors are available 24 hours/ 7 days a week to listen and help you through this time. We understand everyone’s story is unique, and The Barker Adoption Foundation's pregnancy counselors listen closely to your needs to support you through the decisions ahead. Our services are confidential and free of charge.