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Help Give a Newborn the Loving Start
The Interim Care Program provides a nurturing environment between hospital discharge and a decision by a new mother to parent or to go forward with a plan for adoption.
You can make a meaningful contribution to the life of a child in a short
amount of time. Start Now.
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Donate TodayInterim Child CareA Special Care ProgramAfter a child is born, birth parents may require additional time to make a permanent plan for that child. During this period, many birth parents choose to take advantage of Spence-Chapin's interim care program. The child is cared for by a family certified and experienced in caring for newborns. Spence-Chapin's interim care families ensure that every baby receives individual attention in a warm and loving environment. During this time, the child's birth mother remains the child's legal parent and may visit her baby. In addition, interim care babies receive regular medical care by Spence-Chapin's team of pediatricians. Why is a baby placed in Interim Care?A birth parent may need time after delivery to make a decision about the baby?s future. The Spence-Chapin Interim Care Program gives birth parents time to make this important decision. During this period, birth parents also receive counseling and are encouraged to visit their child. Babies in the Interim Care program receive exemplary medical attention and any special needs are assessed. The Interim Care Program assures the baby is well cared for during the decision making process. How Do I become an Interim Care Parent Volunteer?To become an Interim Care parent, you can begin by filling out the Preliminary Questionnaire.Once we receive your questionnaire, we may follow up with a phone call to further explain the Interim Care program and to answer any other questions you may have. Our official process begins with a detailed application form; medical forms; fingerprint and Child Abuse clearances; CPR training, and a home study. The application process can go as fast or as slow as you would like. Typically, it takes about one and a half to two months, or longer if needed. What are obligations of the volunteer?Volunteers take on the 24/7 care of a baby until the infant is placed with his/her adoptive parents or returned to his/her birth parents. As we have stated, a baby is typically in Interim Care for an average of 30 days, however this time frame can vary. Many of our Interim Care families choose to take breaks in between infants. The Spence-Chapin Child Care staff is always available to discuss any concerns. Interim Care ProvidersInterim Care Providers talk about their commitment to caring for infants, and the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the life of a child in a short amount of time. |
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