In the New Zealand town of Tshwane, an adoption agency has noticed responded to the needs of teen mothers in the area, regardless of whether they're considering adoption plans for their babies. Sazi Ledwaba, a social worker with Abba Adoptions, says teen mothers who often feel isolated and overwhelmed need help learning to cope with parenthood.

"She said although her organization specializes in adoption, they soon realized that there were a lot of teenage mothers who did not want to give up their babies but struggled to cope with their pregnancy because of pressure from society and parents."

In response to this need, Abba Adoptions opened House Elizabeth - a residential home for single mothers in the greater Tshwane area. The home gives new teen mothers time to adjust to parenthood and possibly reconcile with their own parents, who may be angry about the teen's unexpected pregnancy. Source: Pretoria (AUS) News

Labels: mothers, assistance, teenage_pregnancy

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In 1990 just 12 percent of major U.S. companies offered financial aid for adoption. Last year, that number had increased to 47 percent. Many companies also offer other benefits, such as paid time off and referral services.

"Offering generous adoption benefits gives a company a more family friendly image, even among those who aren't directly affected by adoption, said Rita Soronen, executive director of the Dave Thomas Foundation..."

Federal law mandates up to 12 weeks of unpaid family leave for adoptions, but doesn't require much else. Because fewer than one percent of U.S. employees take advantage of adoption benefits, they're also an inexpensive way for a company to improve its image. Source: The Cincinnati Enquirer

Labels: benefits, assistance, employers

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The city of Carmel, Indiana has become one of only a handful of cities to provide its employees monetary assistance with adoptions. Beginning January 1st, the city will cover adoption costs of up to $5,000 for city employees.

"Adoptions of Indiana Executive Director Meg Sterchi said Carmel is the first government employer she's heard of that helps employees pay for adoption."

Some critics argue that taxpayer money shouldn't be spent to help government employees adopt children. Money for the adoption assistance will come from the cities health program, which is administered by a third party.

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Labels: adoption costs, assistance, money

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