Adoption
Facing an unexpected pregnancy and need help? Call or text 757-536-3068 to speak to our pregnancy counselor. Our services are free and confidential. You have options – and you are not alone!
When facing an unplanned pregnancy, your well-being and your child’s future are our top priorities. We’re here to help you navigate this challenging time with compassion, understanding, and expert guidance, always centered on what’s best for you and your baby.
Together, we can help you build a safe, secure plan, whether that means preparing for parenthood or exploring adoption. You remain in control of your decisions every step of the way, and final decisions about adoption are not made until after your baby is born. You do not need to be Catholic to access our services.
If you’re considering adoption, know that it is a thoughtful, loving decision that can bring joy and hope to families who are unable to conceive.
At CCEVA, we:
- Carefully screen and prepare adoptive families through an extensive home study process
- Provide ongoing training and support to adoptive families
- Stay involved after placement to ensure long-term support
We offer birth mothers:
- Free, confidential pregnancy support
- Help talking with family members
- Guidance in choosing an adoptive family
- Support at the hospital
- Post-adoption counseling and services
No matter where you are in your journey, we are here to walk alongside you with compassion, respect, and unwavering support.
Frequently Asked Questions
I am already a parent, and I just found out I am pregnant. Can I choose adoption for this baby?
An unplanned pregnancy can be hard. You may feel that you cannot care for another child. Our counselors can help you think about your choices and next steps.
Can I call Catholic Charities if I am not sure about adoption?
Yes. Our pregnancy counselors can answer your questions. They will explain your rights as a birth parent. No one will push you to choose adoption. We will help you make the choice that feels right for you and your baby.
Can I choose the family that will adopt my baby?
Yes. CCEVA checks each waiting family with a full home study. You may also meet the family before you make your final choice.
Do I have to be Catholic to call Catholic Charities?
No. Catholic Charities helps people of all ages, faiths, and backgrounds.
Can my child look for me when they grow up?
Yes. In Virginia, a child may look for their birth parents when they turn 18. Please keep your contact information up to date with Catholic Charities of Eastern Virginia. This helps us reach you if your child searches for you.
Can I write a letter to my child?
Yes. A letter can help your child learn about you. You can share how you felt during pregnancy and why you chose adoption. The adoptive family can save the letter for your child.
How do I know my child will be safe and cared for?
Every adoptive family must meet rules from Catholic Charities of Eastern Virginia and the State of Virginia. We carefully check each family before we approve them. After placement, a counselor visits the family to make sure your child is doing well.
What is the difference between open and closed adoption?
In a closed adoption, the birth parents and adoptive family do not share names or have contact.
In an open or semi-open adoption, the birth parents and adoptive family have some contact. You may get letters or photos a few times a year. You may also meet or talk with the family often. Our counselors can help you choose the type of contact that is best for you.
How much will my child know about me?
You will fill out forms about your family, health, and life. The amount of information shared depends on your adoption plan. Some plans share your name, and some do not. Your child will get information when it is right for their age.
Does the birth father need to know about the pregnancy and adoption plan?
Each situation is unique, and you can talk through the process with our counselors. Birth fathers do have legal rights. They may sign up with the Virginia Birth Father Registry to protect those rights. In Virginia, adoption agencies must tell the father about the adoption plan.
How might I feel after my child is placed for adoption?
Each parent feels different. Adoption is not an easy choice. You may feel grief, loss, or sadness. You may also feel joy or peace when you see your child with the adoptive family. Experiences vary from parent to parent.
What if I change my mind after my baby is born?
You may change your mind after your baby is born. In Virginia, birth parents have 10 days after they sign the papers to change their minds.
Can I still talk to my counselor after the adoption?
Yes. We are here to help for as long as you need us.
What does an adoption agency do?
An adoption agency has trained staff who know the adoption process. The agency gives free help and counseling before, during, and after an adoption choice.
What help does CCEVA give to adoptive parents?
Catholic Charities of Eastern Virginia (CCEVA) does home studies for families adopting through CCEVA. We also do home studies for Virginia families who plan a private adoption. After a child is placed, we visit the family and provide reports. CCEVA cannot help with adoptions that are being fought in court or with foster care placements.
How long is my home study good for?
In Virginia, an approved home study is good for three years. The three years start on the approval date. An agency in another state may ask you to update it sooner.
How long will I wait for a child to be placed in my home?
There is no set wait time. Each adoption is different. The wait depends on the needs and choices of expectant parents, how families are matched, and how many adoption options are open. CCEVA has helped many families adopt, but the timing is different for each family.
Meet the Families
Our agency families are all unique, loving and face fertility challenges that prevent them from conceiving. Please take a minute to meet our waiting families.
Text, call or email our Adoption Specialist at (757)-536-3068, adoptionservices@cceva.org
Adoption Program Services
We serve all of Southeastern Virginia and offer the following:
- Domestic adoption
- Parental placement adoption
- Independent/Kinship adoption
- Search & disclosure services
- Adoptive couple education
- Home studies
- Coordination of adoptive family and birth family meetings
- Child placement
- Post placement supervision
- Adoption finalization
- Adoption follow up support
- Pregnancy counseling for birth parents
- Court reports for finalization
- Agency collaboration based on family needs
Text or Call 757-536-3068
or email adoptionservices@cceva.org
Click below to make an online payment for your adoption service.
Post Adoption Services
Our post adoption specialists offer ongoing training, individualized case management, advocacy, service coordination, school advocacy, and access to tools and resources to help families sustain lasting adoptive placements. Our post adoption services are free and confidential.
Call 757-456-2366 or email adoptionservices@cceva.org
